And I hope that one is me. An appraiser whom I work with regularly (Kenny McDonald-518-566-6112) who I'd say is among the best appraiser's in the entire area invited me to a free breakfast yesterday. The breakfast is taking place at the Elks Club in Plattsburgh, NY. The breakfast is being hosted by the local chapter of BNI.
As I understand it there can only be one member of a given profession representing that profession in each chapter of BNI. Kenny Tells me that there is a "mortgage guy" who is in the group, but that he does not broker mortgages, he is a mortgage planner.
I am not sure how important the actual job function is with regard to allowable representation per profession. Does this mortgage guy who is in the group represent the mortgage industry or does he simply represent mortgage planner's?
I guess the difference is comparable to the difference between a Home Stager and a Realtor. However I am only speculating from what I have been told and what I have read about BNI. Any member's Here?
I am very curious about the group and I would like to know more. I would like to join BNI, it would not just be a boon to my career, but it would also give me some like minded people to talk to and to brainstorm with. I am thinking that I will join the Elks Club as well. Networking is very important to me and I have been doing plenty of it on the web.
I have made some good solid connections on the web on these social networking sites. I have not done enough networking in person however and that will be the next phase of my overall strategic marketing plan that I need to implement.
Curious though, are any of you members of BNI or any other similar networking groups? Are there any other networking groups out there that are similar to BNI?
I would like to join BNI, but if I am ineligible because my industry already has representation I am considering starting my own group. Any advice?
Christopher Ohlsen
37 Boynton Ave
(845) 243-5293 (Office)
(518) 565-0799 (Cell)
www.plattsburghmortgage.net
chris.ohlsen@guaranteedrate.com
Carlos - Thanks for the advice. I'll find out which category he is in, but this information alone is very useful. This is what I was wondering that inspired me to write this post. I did not know whether or not it was broken into categories or if they took a broader spectrum into consideration. Thanks again for the information, have a great year!
Frances - Best of luck to you in making your group a success! Please come back and let me know how it works out.
John - My plan was to go as a guest, and an appraiser buddy of mine asked me if I'de fill in for him sometimes. It's just that after speaking to his boss my buddy decided that it would be wise (and I agree) to make sure that it is ok with the guy whom is with CTX mortgage. My buddy said he'd get back to me with the answer, but he has not been able to get through to the fellow from CTX yet. He said he'll talk to him at the next meeting they are both at. I hope that he doesn't mind my participation.
I personally have never had much luck with BNI, Chamber of commerce or other networking groups in this area but maybe you will have better luck.
Joey