Trigger Networking

by David Givot

Before joining Business Network International (BNI), I absolutely HATED networking. While I am completely comfortable speaking in front of hundreds of people, I was uncomfortable nearly to the point of panic doing the "face-to-face" thing at networking socials, business mixers, and other such events. Now, thanks to the training and support I have with BNI, I am a [developing] networking machine.

I love the idea of connecting people who can benefit one another; being the guy who "knows someone" who can help. Having been a Paramedic and now a Defense Attorney, helping others is really all I have ever known. Moreover, I truly enjoy the relationship building. In this day and age, it's nice to know there are people I can depend on when I am in a pinch...and those same people can depend on me.

Now though, I find myself looking for and experimenting with ways to be an even better networker, not necessarily for myself, but for others. That's right, I find myself searching for ways to help the other members of High Trust BNI (that's my chapter) get more business because I know that "Givers Gain." For me, "Givers Gain" (the foundation on which BNI was built) has become more than a philosophy, it is a way of life.

To that end, I have begun experimenting with "Trigger Networking." The concept of Trigger Networking is very straightforward: I create simple associations between the members and things I encounter in everyday life.

For example, Julaine Waggoner is our Real Estate agent, so every time I see a "For Sale" sign in front of a house, I make a conscious effort to think of her. Lisa Foster is our Massage Therapist, so every time I see someone who looks stressed, I make a conscious effort to think of her. When I see an Edison truck I think of Ken Tolerico, our electrician. When I see the picture frame section of a department store, I think of Ivan Vejar, our photographer. When I drive by a golf course, I think of Michael Majancsik, our Chiropractor. You get the idea. After a while, it becomes almost second nature and the list is long. 

The purpose of Trigger Networking is to actively keep the other members of High Trust BNI in the forefront of my mind so they are there before I need them. By doing so, when I am talking with someone in any given situation, I am ready with "...I know someone who can help..." before the other person knows or even thinks to ask. If that suggestions becomes a referral and the referral becomes a "Thank You for Closed Business," then I have just helped every member of my chapter, including myself, because Givers Gain.

High Trust BNI has set some very high goals for the 2010-11 year and we have established some very high standards. Nevertheless, with the team of professionals we have along with the growth we are cultivating, I have every confidence that the goal of One Million Dollars in closed business for our members this year is too low.