International Networking Organization Continues to Add Chapters in the Greater Los Angeles Area

Networking is especially essential during a struggling economy, he adds, the likes of which many Californians know firsthand. In a tough economy, it's your social capital that has value," Misner says. Businesses need to get creative and add to their traditional marketing efforts. Developing their networking skills and learning how to build their business through word-of-mouth can be their saving grace."

(PRWEB) May 19, 2003 -- While many businesses struggle with the weakened economy, the business of networking couldnt be better for BNI (Business Network Intl.), the worlds largest referral organization.

In the past year, BNI added more than 10 chapters in Orange County alone, bringing the total number of chapters in the Greater Los Angeles area to more than 90. Worldwide, BNI boasts more than 2,700 chapters, and the San Dimas-based business has posted double-digit growth every year since it was founded in 1985.

Dr. Ivan Misner, author of the New York Times bestseller Masters of Networking, and founder of BNI, credits the organizations success, in part, to the recognition by professionals that word-of-mouth marketing makes good business sense.

Networking is especially essential during a struggling economy, he adds, the likes of which many Californians know firsthand. In a tough economy, it's your social capital that has value," Misner says. Businesses need to get creative and add to their traditional marketing efforts. Developing their networking skills and learning how to build their business through word-of-mouth can be their saving grace."

Part of what makes BNI so valuable for its members is its structure and system, he says. Chapters are limited to one person per professional classification or specialty, and members meet weekly where they build personal relationships with other qualified professionals. The organization, which holds two conferences annually and has an extensive library of audiotapes, also places an emphasis on education and training for its directors, leaders and members.

Often, business people dont have a clue how to build their business through word of mouth," says Misner, dubbed the Networking Guru" by Entrepreneur magazine. Most of them know its very important, but they think they cant do much about it. BNI provides the system to do something about it."

Bobbie Miller, a real estate broker with Century 21 EN Realty, joined the Diamond Bar chapter 14 years ago. At the time, she figured the group would supplement her business. Instead, she says, the contacts she has forged have become the foundation of her business.

I have 28 people that I consider my sales force, and they are out there every day looking for business for me," she said. Theres no better form of advertising than having someone speak on your behalf."

Besides referrals, Ms. Miller says the professional interaction is priceless. Its great to surround yourself with quality people, and its valuable insight you dont get in a book."

BNI is headquartered in San Dimas, Calif., and has chapters located in 14 countries. Since its inception, members have referred almost $1 billion worth of business to other members. For more information about BNI, visit www.bni.com.

If you would like to schedule an interview with Dr. Misner, who is also on the business faculty of Cal Poly University, Pomona, or find out about specific chapters in your area, call Olivia Mayer 303.796.9469 or Michael Drew at 714.540.0331.