Which Works Best, the Chamber of Commerce or BNI?

Some business owners have yet to acquaint themselves with BNI Networking Referrals. The Chamber of Commerce generally wins by default when seeking local networking opportunities. Before we go any further, we thought you might want to read this explanation from the BNI website. It will help you in your decision-making process:

"Last year alone, BNI generated 7.1 million referrals resulting in $3.3 billion dollars worth of business for its members. We offer members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and most importantly, business referrals."

A BNI referral trumps those which you may receive from other non-competitive business people, customers and friends. And some business owners have learned that  depending on certain pass-alongs could have unintended, negative consequences.

Why take the risk?

The Local Chamber of Commerce Advantage

One misnomer concerning the Chamber of Commerce is that it's one huge organization. That couldn't be further from the truth. The C of C is made-up of many different chapters. Your local unit is independent from one in another city.

There are, however, state, national and international Chambers. Those larger entities mostly train their attention toward political advocacy and not local networking. It's not to say that your closest chapter doesn't engage in politics. Some do both -- advocate and assist in local networking. A good example of playing a dual role is the Austin Chamber of Commerce.

"The Chamber has a number of activities designed to boost networking and offer local business people an opportunity to connect socially and professionally," explains Linda Pophal. She's with Strategic Communications, LLC and a member of the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce, "From monthly "Business After Hours" events, to networking luncheons, breakfast meetings, annual gatherings, etc. They sponsor an annual “Business Expo” that is always a big draw."

Those are significant facets of your local Chamber. Quite a few sponsor events which zero-in on referrals and assist in generating leads.

Every business-person keeps an eagle-eye on the bottom line. So, you will be interested to know that while each Chamber is unique, the range you'll pay yearly varies from $100 to $500. A perk is that some Chambers offer discounts to new members.

The BNI Advantage

Don't be discouraged by BNI's boast that they are the "world’s largest networking, referrals, and word of mouth marketing organization." BNI stretches its wings broadly, but they likewise focus on the local market space. As a new member, you are becoming a part of a particular chapter. Unlike the Chamber, BNI is a fairly exclusive club -- only one member from a specific profession can join. Think of it as protection from the competition. Also, realize there's quite a rivalry as you seek to get a referral from a member with another chapter.

When you become part of the BNI family, you are making a major commitment. There are weekly meetings you are required to attend (these get-togethers last about an hour-and-a-half). Lastly, the annual fee is at the top end of a Chamber membership -- about $500 per year.

Making a Choice

Which one should you pick for local networking opportunities? We're going to take the easy way out of answering that question. Since there's no reason you can't become a member of both the local Chamber and BNI, why not try to join both? Just remember, it's not a "set it and forget it" proposition. You will need to participate and not merely nail a plaque to the wall of your business.

Try this before making a commitment. Take-in a couple of meetings with both groups. That should help you in your final decision of one over the other or both. It may additionally give you the advantage to better see who are the movers-and-shakers in your community.