At BNI meetings, the energy is palpable, driven by the enthusiastic participation of members and visitors alike. Yet, a common challenge persists—inviting new visitors. In a recent BNI Education Slot, Zoe Devenport from Henry R Davis & Co tackled this very issue. Her insights, laced with humor and personal anecdotes, shed light on why members might hesitate to bring in guests and offered practical strategies to overcome these barriers.

Understanding the Value of Visitors

Zoe started her talk by highlighting some impressive visitor statistics at her BNI chapter, pointing out a notable increase in guests during recent months. However, she quickly turned the spotlight on a concerning statistic: 17 members had not brought any visitors. This set the stage for her main inquiry—what stops us from inviting visitors?

The Impact of Visitors on Meetings

Visitors play a crucial role in BNI meetings. They not only bring fresh energy but also new business opportunities. Zoe illustrated how the presence of visitors encourages members to arrive early, engage more actively, and broaden their professional networks. The enthusiasm that visitors bring can noticeably lift the atmosphere of the meeting, fostering a more dynamic and interactive environment.

Personal Barriers to Inviting Visitors

Using herself as a case study, Zoe shared that she had brought 50 visitors over her ten-year membership but none in the last six months. She openly pondered on this change, questioning what had caused this drop in her own visitor invitations. Her honesty prompted members to reflect on their personal barriers. Zoe’s own story about initially using unconventional methods like approaching potential visitors in car parks, and the need to shift strategies, served as a relatable example of adapting invitation tactics.

Overcoming Psychological Barriers

One of the most significant takeaways from Zoe’s talk was the psychological barriers that prevent members from inviting guests. She discussed the common misconception that inviting someone to a BNI meeting is akin to asking them to join immediately. This mindset can deter members from extending invitations due to fear of rejection or the assumption that the potential visitor might not be interested in membership. Zoe emphasized the importance of viewing invitations as opportunities to simply introduce business owners to the BNI network, not as commitments to join.

Effective Strategies for Inviting Visitors

Zoe provided several strategies to help members invite more visitors. She highlighted the effectiveness of leveraging social media platforms and responding to marketing outreach with an invitation to attend a BNI meeting. She praised members who consistently use their networks, like Darren, who utilizes LinkedIn to connect with potential visitors.

Moreover, Zoe encouraged members to think of every interaction as a potential invitation opportunity. Whether responding to a LinkedIn message or discussing business with a client, every conversation could lead to an invitation. She stressed the importance of being clear that the invitation is to experience a BNI meeting and possibly expand the visitor’s own network, rather than an immediate push for membership.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Zoe concluded her presentation with a call to action for all members to reflect on what might be stopping them from inviting visitors. She encouraged newer members to reach out to the leadership team for advice on inviting guests and suggested that more seasoned members share their strategies with others.

Her talk underscored the notion that each member’s effort to invite visitors significantly contributes to the vitality and success of the chapter. By demystifying the process and addressing the fears associated with it, Zoe has paved the way for members to enhance their engagement and expand their influence within the business community.

The Takeaway

Zoe Devenport’s education slot serves as a poignant reminder of the power of personal growth and community support in BNI chapters. It is not just about increasing numbers but enriching experiences and expanding business opportunities for all members. As BNI continues to foster environments where professionals thrive, overcoming the challenge of inviting visitors is a shared responsibility that benefits everyone involved.

In the spirit of BNI’s philosophy of “Givers Gain,” let us all strive to extend those invitations more freely, breaking down barriers and building bridges towards greater business success. Each invitation could be the gateway to new opportunities not just for the invitee but for the entire chapter.