Why I Decided to Rejoin BNI
A while back, I shared my decision to step away from Business Networking International (BNI) after over a decade of active membership. Both of my parents passed away within a few months of each other, and I needed time to focus on personal matters and to grieve. After two years, I made the decision to return to my BNI group. Here’s why getting back has been great for me and my business.
Finding Comfort in Community
One of the biggest reasons for my return was the community. During my time away, I realized how much I missed the camaraderie and support of my BNI friends. These folks are more than just business associates; they are people who have supported me through both professional and personal challenges. The sense of belonging and mutual support in BNI is something that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s comforting to know that you are part of a community that genuinely cares about your success and well-being.
Enjoying the Routine
Returning to BNI has reintroduced a much-missed structure to my work weeks. The regular meetings provide not just business opportunities but also a business centered habit that keeps me organized and focused. This routine helps in maintaining a balance between work and building personal relationships while managing my business in the process.
Business Keeps Rolling
The impact of my BNI connections on my business became especially apparent during my hiatus. A significant portion of my business continued to come through relationships built in BNI. The steady income flow was a testament to the strength of the connections I had made. The network I had built turned out to be a proven asset, continuing to provide growth opportunities, even in my absence.
Getting Out and About
Working from home, I miss out on regular water cooler interactions that office environments naturally provide. Attending BNI meetings offers a welcome change of scenery and the chance to interact face-to-face with other business owners. These interactions are important for my mental health, breaking the isolation that can sometimes accompany remote work.
Strengthening Bonds and Skills
Since my return, I have been reconnecting with old friends and cultivating relationships with new members. These strong referral partnerships are driving new business. Furthermore, regular presentations at meetings have help me polish my public speaking skills. Effective communication is a important in any business setting, and BNI provides a safe and supportive environment to practice and improve these skills.
Economic Security in Uncertain Times
The current economic climate is filled with uncertainties, and having a network is needed now more than ever. My BNI group will provide new opportunities and buffer against downturns in the economy. We’re there for each other in good economies and bad ones, too.
Personal Growth and Learning
Returning to BNI has also been a helpful to my personal growth. The culture of sharing knowledge and experiences is enriching and has pushed me to continuously improve both as a business owner and as an individual. Members share knowledge, blog posts, podcasts and inspirational quotes at our meetings each week.
Reflecting on My Return
This return to BNI feels right. The break allowed me to appreciate the value of my network and the benefits of being part of such a dynamic group. Rejoining BNI has been about more than just business growth—it’s about feeling motivated, knowing that every meeting is an opportunity to learn, share, and contribute.
If you’ve never visited a BNI meeting, I encourage you to give it a try.
