In this concise yet impactful BNI Education Slot, Mike Corner explores the hidden cost of absence within a BNI chapter. Using the simple visual of an empty chair, he delivers a message that resonates with every member: not showing up has consequences.
Mike begins by stating that an empty chair is costing members money every single week. He then introduces a powerful analogy, comparing a BNI chapter to a team. In any effective team, individuals support one another, pass opportunities and work collaboratively toward shared success.
To bring this idea to life, he uses the example of a football being passed between teammates. When everyone is present, the system works seamlessly. But when someone is missing, the flow breaks down, the ball gets dropped and the team suffers.
This leads to the central message: an empty chair is not just a physical absence. It represents missed referrals, lost opportunities and a weakening of the group dynamic.
Mike emphasizes that consistency is critical. Members are always observing one another, forming opinions about reliability and trustworthiness. Regular attendance signals commitment, while absence raises doubts.
He also addresses the importance of substitutes. If a member cannot attend, it is their responsibility to send a capable stand-in. Failing to do so not only impacts their own business but also lets the wider team down.
Ultimately, Mike’s talk reinforces that BNI is built on collective effort. Growth happens together, but only if members consistently show up and actively participate.
His closing message is clear: being present isn’t optional, it’s essential to both individual and group success.
Full Transcript
00:13
This empty chair is costing us all money every single week.
00:21
This is a football. Today, it’s a team. In a team, we support each other, we pass, and we’re there for each other.
00:37
We’re here. Nice—we catch.
00:42
But what happens when no one’s there?
00:53
The ball drops. The team falls apart.
00:58
So, an empty chair isn’t just a chair.
01:02
That’s a referral. That’s missed business. A missed opportunity.
01:08
This only works if you show up. Consistency is everything.
01:16
People are always watching. They’re building a picture of us. Can they trust us?
01:25
Are you reliable? Do you show up? If you don’t turn up, you need to bring a good substitute.
01:35
If you don’t, you’re not really being part of the team, are you?
01:40
In any good team, we work together, we support each other, and we grow together.
01:50
But perspective is everything, isn’t it? How people see us means a lot.
01:57
Are people going to pass us work each week if we don’t turn up consistently? No, they’re not.
02:04
So, if you’re not going to be at the next meeting—or any meeting moving forward—we need to do our best to find a good substitute to stand in your place.
02:19
Because the last thing we want to do is let the team down.
02:23
We need to grow together, but we also need to be here together every week, showing up.
02:27
That’s my education slot, guys.
Subscribe for the latest BNI Education Slots
