BNI Central Maryland’s Post

The Secret Sauce of Networking: Quality Over Quantity Today I'm here with a truth bomb about networking that took me years to figure out: "It's not about how many hands you shake, it's about how many hearts you touch." Let me tell you, when I first joined BNI (Business Network International), I thought networking was a numbers game. The more business cards I collected, the better, right? Wrong! Here's what I've learned on this journey: 01. Networking isn't about adding names to your database like entries in a guest log. It's about building real, meaningful connections. 02. That person you met for 2 minutes at an event? They're not magically going to solve all your business problems. And you won't solve theirs either. 03. True networking is about community. It's about showing up consistently, adding value, and genuinely caring about others' success. At Datamate, our biggest breakthroughs came not from random connections, but from relationships we nurtured over time through BNI (Business Network International). It's been a game-changer for us! So, here's my challenge to you: At your next networking event, forget about meeting everyone. Instead, focus on having 2-3 genuine conversations. Ask about their challenges, share insights, find ways to help. Trust me, those meaningful interactions will take you further than a stack of business cards ever could. What's your most memorable networking experience? Share a story of a connection that truly made a difference in your business journey. Let's celebrate the power of genuine relationships! 🎉💼 #BNILessons #Relationships #DatamateJourney

Networking is often overlooked by small businesses, but the right strategy can make all the difference. It’s not just about showing up—it’s about making connections that align with your goals. The key is to be intentional and focus on quality relationships. Networking Strategy Tips for Growth: - Be prepared: Go to every networking event with a clear goal. Is it to find potential clients, partners, or simply learn? - Listen more than you speak: Understanding what others need allows you to position yourself as a valuable connection. - Follow up consistently: Send a message or schedule a meeting within 24 hours to solidify the connection. 💼 Pro Tip: Join a structured networking group, like Queen City BNI, where connections are focused on helping each other grow. . . . #bnivermont #bni #bniglobal #giversgain #professionalnetworking #networking #businessconnections #vermontbusiness #vermontsmallbusiness #vermontbyvermonters #vermontliving #shoplocalvt #churchstreetmarketplace #loveburlington #helloburlington

Networking done right can be a catalyst for growth! 💥 Discover how business networking, especially in structured groups like BNI, can be a game-changer for building connections that lead to real opportunities. Tap into expert tips on making your networking meaningful by reading the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gymA5Xwf 📕 #BNITampa #businessnetworking

Boost Your Networking Game with This Simple Tip! 🚀 Networking can lead to valuable connections! After a conversation, ask who they recommend for further introductions. Building bridges can enhance your business growth and lead to amazing opportunities. Remember to acknowledge those who connect you! Have a fantastic day! #NetworkingTips #BusinessGrowth #ConnectionMatters #BuildYourNetwork #GrowTogether #EntrepreneurAdvice #EnhanceConnections #CommunityBuilding #SuccessMindset #ReferralNetwork

Networking is NOT only about you When I first joined BNI, I thought networking was only about exchanging cards and discussing our work. However, it is more than that. Networking is more about relationships than transactions. It is about building trust, showing up consistently, and adding value to each other's businesses. Networking doesn't count how many people you meet or share your business cards with. True networking is done when mutual respect for each other helps to succeed. Whether it is the valuable lead or sharing insights, it's the small consistent actions. Being part of a community like BNI has taught me that business growth is just the byproduct of genuine relationships. "𝐆𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐆𝐚𝐢𝐧" is such a simple yet powerful idea. The more you give, the more you grow. Networking is about showing up for others, sharing time, and being genuinely available for others. You build trust and genuine relationships there and get your business done. What is one lesson that has shaped the way you connect with others? Let’s share and grow together. 😊 #BNInetworking #networking

🎁 Networking is the gift that keeps on giving. Dan’s recent "Networking Gift Box" session reminded us of the core values that drive success in BNI: 🔗 Every member is a crucial link in the chain. 💡 Referrals shine a light on opportunities. 🔑 A key represents trust and support. 📝 Follow-up turns introductions into results. This holiday season, let’s embrace the gifts of networking and help each other grow. Ready to join a network that strengthens businesses? Join us at BNI Sunrise! #NetworkingEducation #ProfessionalDevelopment #BNISunrise #SmallBusinessSupport #BusinessNetworking #HamiltonEntrepreneurs #BusinessGrowth #NetworkingTips What’s the best networking gift you’ve received? Share in the comments!

Wednesday Wisdom: The Art of Networking 🤝 Last week, a dear friend expressed his apprehension about attending an upcoming networking event. His honesty sparked a meaningful discussion during our mastermind call about the true essence of networking. Here’s a piece of advice I shared, which I believe transforms the networking experience: Be yourself, and set a clear intention before stepping into the event. Aim to make at least one meaningful connection—it's the quality of interactions that counts, not the quantity. Remember, networking isn't about selling your product or service upfront. It's about building relationships where trust, likeability, and genuine connections are at the forefront. When people know, like, and trust you, business opportunities follow naturally. What strategies have you found effective for networking? I’d love to hear about your experiences! #Networking #ProfessionalGrowth #BusinessTips

⬇️In the next few weeks, we'll be sharing some networking tips. Check them out here: . 👋Introduce yourself to the organizer. A great way to get to know more about an organization and who is involved is to seek out the event organizer and introduce yourself. He/she can then help point you in the right direction and can introduce you to other attendees to get you off on the right foot . 🤩Treat people like friends. Would you go to a friend, interrupt his/her conversation, hand over a business card, talk about yourself and then walk away? Of course not. Treat new networking relationships as you’d treat your friendships. Build rapport and trust that business will happen. . 📣Feel more prepared to attend a networking event!? . 🤔 Then consider visiting BNI Chapter 33, The Dream Team! 1l.ink/86SF2RB . 💡DID YOU KNOW? ✅ Our average seat is worth $53,600 in revenue per year, meaning plenty earn much more ✅In the past 12 months, we've passed 578 referrals which amounted to over $2 million dollars in closed business for our members ✅BNI Chapter 33 was named chapter of the YEAR out of 49 Manhattan chapters . 📥 So if YOU or anyone you KNOW is looking to gain more qualified leads & business, sign up here to visit! . ➡️ 1l.ink/RLJGCLH . SEE YOU THERE 😁👋🙋♂️👯♀️💥

People often talk about the key elements of successful networking: trust, likeability, and value. But how can you truly build these without accountability? As a third-time member of BNI (Business Network International), I’ve come to appreciate how its structured approach to networking has had a positive impact on my business. While opinions about BNI can sometimes be like Marmite (you either love it or you don’t), my experience this time around has been invaluable. The accountability within BNI—regular meetings, setting goals, and holding yourself and others to commitments—ensures that trust and likeability aren’t just buzzwords. They’re earned through consistent actions and genuine contributions to the group. If you’ve been wondering how networking can work for your business or how to turn connections into meaningful results, I’d be happy to chat about my experience. Feel free to share this post within your network and reach out if you’d like to learn more about how BNI, particularly BNI Projekt, could make a difference for you! Tom Prior Bolaji Kalejaiye Arshan Baskaran Melvyn Manning Frank Crook Derrick North Rachel Barham Vicky Labinger Sharon Hirsch 🖐Sam Davison Bob Clark Janet Smyth

NETWORKING Starting something new is never easy, especially in a niche like customs consulting. Coming from a government background, I never realized how critical networking would be for business success. I’ve tried attending events, meeting people, and introducing my services, but the progress has been slow. Sometimes, it feels like taking two steps forward and one step back. Then, while doing research on ways to grow my network, I came across Business Network International (#BNI). At first, I wasn’t sure what to make of it. Could a networking organization really help? But the more I explored, the more it made sense. BNI, a global networking organization built on the philosophy of “Givers Gain.” It’s designed to help businesses grow through structured relationships, trust-building, and referrals. If you’re starting fresh like me, remember this: progress might be slow, but every connection you make adds value. Networking isn’t about immediate results; it’s about planting seeds that will grow into something meaningful. And who knows? The connections you build today might shape your success tomorrow. For those already part of BNI: What has your experience been like? Would love to hear your insights!