When I first decided to diversify into private work, I knew I had to expand my network to succeed. The challenge was determining the best use of my budget and time. There were many options: the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, NPI, Toastmasters, ProVisors, BNI, and more. Ultimately, I chose BNI, as I had previously been invited to a meeting but wasn’t ready to join at that time. Since joining, I haven’t looked back and have been a dedicated member of the same chapter for nearly 10 years.
We meet weekly, every Wednesday morning from 7 to 8:30 AM at a country club. BNI is structured so that each member represents a different profession. I am the sole real estate appraiser in my chapter, which has nearly 50 members. We have a robust real estate team that includes residential agents, commercial agents, mortgage brokers, inspectors, insurance agents, roofers, and general contractors. Surprisingly, most of my referrals come not from the real estate team but from other members with various backgrounds, including attorneys and PEO specialists, and notably from members outside my chapter.
BNI’s structure and attendance policy are key to its success. The meetings are run the same way each week, and the attendance policy limits absences and allows for substitutes when necessary. This consistency helps build strong relationships, as you see the same people weekly. Outside of meetings, I typically meet members for coffee, drinks, or dinner about once every two weeks to learn more about each other’s businesses and explore how we can support each other. BNI also has a referral policy requiring members to bring a referral for another member, give a testimonial, or bring a visitor each week. Once you get into the swing of it, you become the go-to person in your network, and your friends and family start calling you first for recommendations—creating more referral opportunities.
Every week, we give 45-second commercials, which has made me more intentional about my business and who I want to connect with. For example, one month, I might focus on meeting estate planning attorneys or real estate brokers. Being part of a diverse group of professionals has given me a broader perspective on my appraisal business. Learning from more experienced business owners is invaluable, as you can adopt what works for other businesses and avoid what doesn’t. Personally, I’ve grown tremendously. I went from hating public speaking to serving as the president of my chapter and running the meetings for a year.
The costs are high—$1,099 per year and $125 per month for breakfast and local dues. Is it worth it? Absolutely. I would join again in a heartbeat. If you’re considering joining a networking group, it doesn’t have to be BNI. Whatever you choose, commit to it fully and put in your best effort. You get out what you put in.
If you want to learn more about diversifying into private appraisals, please join ReferAppraisals.com. With a free membership, you will be listed on the referral network, have access to our Private Q&A Forum, and receive a weekly non-lender newsletter with tips to grow your private appraisal business. For our ELITE members, check out our latest micro-lesson about BNI, which includes details on how much I make annually from BNI, how I get business from members outside of my chapter, and much more.
Dan Lindeman
Appraisal Referral Network
ReferAppraisals.com
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