President's Weekly Letter, Champions SoCal BNI

Wooooooo, CHAMPIONS!!!!!


Well we will start the last weekly letter of of 2010 with an image montage from the VERY talented Ms. Carla Buchanan, my wife of over 31 years, recent graduate of FIDM, future small business owner and visitor to the Champions SoCal BNI chapter this morning! I hope you enjoy the images!





The room was splendid with holiday decor, several Santa hats, and visitors, visitors, visitors! We inducted our 32nd member in the person of Dan McCoy from Paul Davis Restoration. Welcome to the Champions Dan! We know that you will be a welcome addition to our trades and real estate group.


The Champions welcomed the aforementioned Carla Buchanan with Carla Buchanan Designs, Steve Pitchford from Search Optimizers, Doug Symank from Priority Plumbing, representing himself as a general contractor was Joseph Lynch, Jack Tafreshi who will blaze a new venture in 2011, and Patty Deloera a real estate investor. Returning for his third visit was Jim McCracken of UFirst and subbing for Gary Lorge was Cody Hicks...whew! That is a lot of non stack day visitation! A VERY special guest in the person of Dawn Revelle, from Spark of Love and the Fullerton Fire Department was present to collect the toys that the Champions donated. Dawn also collected something much more meaningful...but more on that later.


EC Moment:
Jim Sando, complete with his own custom Santa hat educated us with the theme, when did someone do something special for you and tied the message in to the season of giving. After all as BNI members we aspire to the motto "givers gain".


SMMs and Tabasco award:
Bill Edman, quack, quack, confessed in the Stand and Deliver that a certain member (Jim Sando) has schooled him on the quality of his "asks". Well if Mr. Sando consults small businesses (and we know he does) as well as he counseled Bill Edman...we will have many more Tabasco winning small businesses. Bill's SMM was spot on...the opening was catchy "definition of insurance", the message flowed to the specific ask for an introduction to Gary Cooper from 3D Instruments in Anaheim and Bill quack, quacked before the bell rang him back into his seat! Steven Stakley sang his moment as did Greg Beck, but Bill's was clearly the best IMHO!


Keynote Pitches:
Rosanne Grigsby from Grigsby Bookkeeping and Rutger Hensel from Branding Personality delivered two very fine Keynotes today...the last of 2010. Rosanne described her "desire" which resulted from overcoming personal adversity to graduate from college and licking cancer. She takes the same tenacity into her bookkeeping assignments. I loved the color squares that Rosanne blended into the pitch...very visual. Well, we can win an IPad if we refer the most biz to Rutger in the first three months of 2011. Rutger expertly explained SMM, SEO, Google ad words, SMO, and how the whole lot of them combine to create a great online marketing strategy. Rutger and his lovely wife Marieke have quite a passion for the auto industry and have great success stories for transforming their branding through social media.


Stand...or should we say kneel and deliver?
The Stand and Deliver portion of the meeting was eclipsed by Clay Colwell kneeling in front of his soon to be bride, Dawn Revelle...that is correct, the same Dawn that was at our meeting to collect toys! Well, she collected a whole lot more as we witnessed. The moment was special for all of the Champions and I know that Dawn and Clay will never forget where Clay "popped the question". Greg and Rosanne were quick to point out that both Dawn and Clay are in line for the joint tax filing benefit...gotta love the tax folks! Best of luck for a VERY happy life together, you two! Clay also doubled down and won the Champions Spark Plug Award...but who else?


Spark of Champions:
The Champions chapter donated many, many toys for the Spark of Love campaign. We should be very proud of the giver's attitude that filled the room with toys today. I am confident that many children will have a merrier Christmas because of the giving!


The meeting was adjourned with a quote and a wish. The quote: "If your holiday spirit is not in your heart...you will have a tough time finding it under a tree." The wish: to all Champions, friends, and loved ones, have a VERY safe and sane Holiday season!


Presidentially Yours,

Allen

Three Networking Trends to Watch - Entrepreneur.com

Three Networking Trends to Watch - Entrepreneur.com

President's Weekly Letter, Champions SoCal BNI

Wooooooo, CHAMPIONS!!

Well the holiday spirit filled the room at the Meridian Health Cub along with several visitors, subs, and our very own AD, Mr. Lem Bucago! The inflatable Tabasco was regaled in holiday garb and awaited a new place to sit. The SMMs were crisp, timely, and the asks were specific. We enjoyed two great veteran keynote presenters, Jim Salem from First Team Realty and Brett Adolph from Payday Payroll, and Jim Sando did a usually brilliant job of EC ing the Moment. The highlight of the day for me however was awarding the Champions Spark Plug award to a truly deserving, very selfless Champion, Rosanne Grigsby! We are blessed as Champions to have a Secretary/Treasurer (and former caterer) in the person of Rosanne. Look "Giver's Gain" up in the manual...next to the definition will be a photo of Rosanne! Rosanne planned, purchased the food, made the delicacies and delivered the tasty morsels to our holiday social last Thursday. All who attended at Co-Working Fullerton were amazed by the spread and Rosanne greeted us as if we had entered her home. She is a beauty and we love her dearly! Thanks Rosanne. The Champion Spark Plug Award is give to the Champion each week that goes "above and beyond" the week before. The award was created in 2007 by Mark Waterman, a former VP and the first recipient was Dr. Hercules Real.

SMMs and Tabasco:

Yes, yours truly is now the proud recipient! I had to sing, however, and all of the Champions look at me a little less presidentially...

EC Moment:

Tremendous as always! Jim has a way of bringing the script to life like no other. Today Jim's topics centered around our goals for 2011 and how networking should play a part in our marketing efforts. Even our AD, Lem was impressed and said so afterward.

Welcome, Welcome, Welcome:

Three great visitors attended today and two submitted apps...wooo hooo!

Jim McCracken from U First and all the way from El Paso, Texas

Joseph S. Davis from the Law Firm of the same name

Peter Zazzara from Zazzara Construction

Also:

Donna Edman from People's Care subbed for Bill...Quack, Quack

and Margaret Ornelas from Stratus subbed for Maurice Herron.

Keynotes:

From two vets that know how to describe their businesses! My quick take aways fom Jim Salem; he is experienced and uses his education to the benefit of his clients. You get Jim...not an intern. Expert representation is more important than ever when navigating the complex world of home purchasing. You can use Jim's 40+ office network to your benefit as well. Brett warmed the room with his typical charm...and candy bars which are his trademark! Payday is a local payroll provider that has been in business for twenty years and has approximately 2300 clients. 900 of those were originated by Brett. In the words of Forrest Gump, "That's all I have to say about that!"

Next Week:

SPECIAL TREAT!! We are collecting toys for the Spark of Love Campaign. Dawn Revelle will be here to collect the toys and receive a special "THANKS!" You don't want to miss this one, folks!

And remember, this is our last meeting of the year!

Old Biz:

If you missed the Twelve Month's of Champions, here it is again. Enjoy! Thanks to Robert Perez for the wonderful production. All I can say is that we shouldn't quit our day jobs, fellas...

The Morn' of our Stack Day, Another Holiday Parody

The Morn' of our"Stack Day"

Modified by Allen C. Buchanan, President of Champions SoCal BNI

A Holiday Parody on the story

"The Night Before Christmas"

by Clement Clarke Moore
or Henry Livingston

'Twas the Morn of our Stack Day, before the agenda;

Not a visitor was stirring, not even a pretenda.

The breakfast was set by Victoria with care;

In hopes that the visitors soon would be there.

The LT was ready all secure in their roles;

While visions of referrals increased the chapter's goals.

And the Sec/Treas with her buzzer, and I with my shtick;

Had just settled down for 7:30 to tick.

When out on the lot there arose such a clatter;

I sprang from the table to see what was the matter.

Away to the visitor table I flew like a flash;

Tore open the name tags and braced for the crash.

The sign on the steps of the Meridian Club;

Pointed up to our room near the racquetball hub.

When, what to our GRC team should appear;

But visitors in new categories from everywhere.

With our visitor hosts, so lively and quick;

I knew in a moment that the name tags would stick.

More rapid than eagles the visitors they came;

And we whistled, and shouted, and called them by name;

"Now, Sign Guy! now, Lawyer! now, Roofer and Electrician!

Get a place at the table, Don't be Stupid! Block your competition!

To the top of the category! to the head of the table!

We called the Champions to order the best we were able.

As the leadership team was introduced with applause;

It became apparent to all that the guests were our cause.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard to my left;

The best EC moment delivered with deft.

As I drew in my head, and was turning around;

The Sales Manager Moments commenced to abound.

We were all rapt attention, as the Keynotes began;

And our knowledge increased as the ten minutes ran.

The guests -- how they twinkled! their smiles how merry!

Their anticipation peaked as we approached the query.

The Stand and Deliver was especially compelling;

As we passed referrals, referrals, and the dollars were swelling.

As the moment approached for the orientation;

The visitors stood and heard a standing ovation.

The rules were explained with the utmost of care;

and the new apps were shared with the greatest of flair.

As the guests returned to the room with exclaim;

We hoped that the Stack Day had not been in vein.

A wink of the Veep's eye and a twist of his head;

Soon gave me to know we had nothing to dread.

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work;

And approved all the apps; then turned with a jerk.

And laying his finger aside of his nose;

And giving a nod, up to the podium he strode.

He sprang to the dais, to his Champions gave a whistle;

and twelve members were added like the down of a thistle.

But I heard him exclaim, as the meeting adjourned;

"Happy Stack Day to Champions, the Corners Been Turned!"

The Twelve Months of Champions (A Holiday Parody), The Video

OK, Ya'll, you asked for it and you got it!! Here is the Twelve Months of Champions...the video version!! We taped this at our recent Christmas Social.

Starring (First through twelfth): Dr. Hercules Real, Michael Figueroa, Doug Luchansky, Christian Vasquez, Bo Lowe, Greg Beck, Jim Sando, Dr. Paul Kwik, Aric Gless, Chuck Tipton Jr., Angelo Dionisiou, and our Area Director, Lem Bucago.

Produced by our very own Robert Perez!!! Videographer to the Champions!!!

Episode 184, BNIs New Global Branded Look

In this week's podcast, Dr. Misner discusses the new branded look for BNI. You can click here to learn more about the new global brand.

Here are the five reasons for the change:
1. BNI is a global organization and brand (almost 5o countries worldwide)
2. The brand needs to be memorable visibly
3. The protection of the brand
4. Uniform look will protect against copying
5. Protects poaching from others

This new logo cements the credibility of our organization and keeps us "coloring between the lines" as the organization grows!!

President's Weekly Letter, Champions SoCal BNI

Woooooo CHAMPIONS:

Pour Some Sugar on Me!!:

As previously written in October, "Calling the Champions" is a play on a semi-"religious" event that occurs multiple times at Arkansas Razorback football games. Having hailed from these hallowed grounds, calling the hogs is in my DNA...and the DNA of my children!! The call was heard from our weekly meetings and the Arkansas Razorbacks completed their Sugar Bowl recipe and were awarded the school's VERY first BCS bowl bid to play in the Sugar Bowl against Ohio State on January 4th!! After calling the Champions this morning a "bowl" of "sugar packets" was prominently placed at the LT dais in celebration of the Champions "calling" efforts. I believe some of our SC fans who are without a bowl birth this year became de facto Hog fans for the bowl!! Go Hogs!! and great job Champions!! Enough of this excess frivolity and on to the chapter biz:

Four visitors and three subs filled the ranks among the Champions this morning and their comments during Stand and Deliver were revealing:

Dan McCoy from Paul Davis Restoration loved the musical SMM provided by the VP...more on that in a minute. Al Beard and Wayne Diamond from Diamond Beard Construction loved the energy. Jim McCracken from UFirst exclaimed that he cannot wait to become a Champion and traveled all the way from El Paso, Texas to prove it!! Our Subs...Tom Roby from Spectrum Financial enjoyed the interaction and the Keynotes. Dennis Leonhardt from Battery Express has subbed in other BNI chapters and has never had such a Champion experience. Finally, Margaret Ornelas from Stratus said that we seemed like a BIG FAMILY...alright!! From the voices of our visitors...telling...I think so!!

Keynotes:

Jim Sando, our business consultant and EC, and Greg Beck, our VP extraordinaire and CPA presented two extremely well rehearsed and specific keynotes for our enjoyment. The things that both keynotes had in common...well delivered, great use of handouts and multi media, wonderful stories about the experience of each, AND ways in which we can refer business to each of them. We are VERY lucky to have such consummate professionals in our midst!! Tremendous job Jim and Greg!!

Ahhhh...the International Tabasco Award for the "hottest" SMM:

Given this week to...wait for it...yes Greg "Rudolf the CPA" Beck...I know, you kinda had to be there!! Its always risky to sing your SMM. Greg pulled it off!! Some notable runners up were, Tom Roberts, Randy Clement, Angelo Dionisiou! Remember...catchy opening, specific ask, and complete within the time frame. The large inflatable Tabasco will now grace future meetings and Greg gets to "rule" the SMMs next week and choose the winner.

How about those November Individual leaders??...and Chapter Stats??...

Referrals last year (two months) 100, this year 132...most referrals, Brett Adolph 13...great efforts by Clay Colwell and Steve Barnett.

1-2-1s last year, 178, this year 261...most 1-2-1s, Bo Lowe (Bo knows Tabasco also) 18...nice going to Aric Gless and Steven Stakley

Visitors last year this time 15, this year 28!!...most visitors...tie between Brett Adolph and Jim Sando 2 each, close was James Kashi.

TYFCB last year, $90,000, this year to date...wait for it...$122,000...even a math challenged President can compute that is over $700,000 annually! We can do $1,000,000!!!

One of the most impressive stats is # of members...31 vs 22 this time last year!!

That is how we CRUSH our goals, Champions!! WAY TO GO!!

Special Thanks:

The Champions Spark Plug Award went to Angelo, our fantastic visitor host team member, who beat every Champion to the meeting this morning and greeted us all with a friendly smile and a cheerful hello!!

With the Holidays fast approaching, the Champions will celebrate with our Christmas Social on Thursday night and will collect toys for Spark of Love on the 21st!!

The meeting was closed with a quote by Dr. Hercules Real...not literally...he provided the quote from Henry Ford about goals!!

Make it a Champion Week!!

The Twelve Months of Champions (A Holiday Parody)

In honor of the season and all that we are grateful for as Champions SoCal BNI members, this parody on the old tune seemed to be in order...You can sing the words below to the original song and improvise on the syllables and it should work. As you will find, the parody is non-denominational to appeal to all faiths. Happy Holidays!!

In the first month of Champions my chapter gave to me, a T-Y-F-C-B.

In the second month of Champions my chapter gave to me, 2 Vis-it-tors, and a T-Y-F-C-B.

In the third month of Champions my chapter gave to me, 3 Stack Days, 2 vis-it-tors, and a T-Y-F-C-B.

In the fourth month of Champions my chapter gave to me, 4 Power Teams, 3 stack days, 2 vis-it-tors, and a T-Y-F-C-B.

In the fifth month of Champions my chapter gave to me, 5 One-to-Ones..., 4 power teams, 3 stack days, 2 vis-it-tors, and a T-Y-F-C-B.

In the sixth month of Champions my chapter gave to me, 6 Chapters Forming, 5 one-to-ones..., 4 power teams, 3 stack days, 2 vis-it-tors, and a T-Y-C-F-B.

In the seventh month of Champions my chapter gave to me, 7 Keynote Pitches, 6 chapters forming, 5 one-to-ones..., 4 power teams, 3 stack days, 2 vis-it-tors, and a T-Y-F-C-B.

In the eighth month of Champions my chapter gave to me, 8 LT Trainings, 7 keynote pitches, 6 chapters forming, 5 one-to-ones..., 4 power teams, 3 stack days, 2 vis-it-tors, and a T-Y-F-C-B.

In the ninth month of Champions my chapter gave to me, 9 Mentors Menting, 8 LT trainings, 7 keynote pitches, 6 chapters forming, 5 one-to-ones..., 4 power teams, 3 stack days, 2 vis-it-tors, and a T-Y-F-C-B.

In the tenth month of Champions my chapter gave to me, 10 Apps Reviewing, 9 mentors menting, 8 LT trainings, 7 keynote pitches, 6 chapters forming, 5 one-to-ones..., 4 power teams, 3 stack days, 2 vis-it-ors, and a T-Y-F-C-B.

In the eleventh month of Champions my chapter gave to me, 11 Veeps Reporting, 10 apps reviewing, 9 mentors menting, 8 LT trainings, 7 keynote pitches, 6 chapters forming, 5 one-to-ones..., 4 power teams, 3 stack days, 2 vis-it-tors, and a T-Y-F-C-B.

And in the twelfth month of Champions my chapter gave to me, 12 EC Moments, 11 veeps reporting, 10 apps reviewing, 9 mentors menting, 8 LT trainings, 7 keynote pitches, 6 chapters forming, 5 one-to-ones..., 4 power teams, 3 stack days, 2 vis-it-tors, and a T-Y-F-C-B!!!

Gramma Betty's, A Great Gift Idea

Gramma Betty's is a GREAT gift idea!! I just attended a chocolate tasting at CoWorking Fullerton and got the first hand taste of a delicious praline!!

A Brief History:

In the early 1940s Gramma Betty began making candy using a family recipe passed down from generation to generation. It started with a delightful milk chocolate turtles & praliné recipe her great grandmother discovered in Paris, France. Today, the family takes great pride in these recipes and ships these gourmet candies coast to coast.

When you share Gramma Betty's you are sharing a family holiday tradition. We hope you'll consider starting a tradition of your own. Happy Holidays!

You can contact Gramma Betty's:

13337 South Street, Ste 14, Cerritos, CA 90703

1-714-521-0555 • 1-877-521-2655

ask@grammabettys.com

ask@grammabettys.com

Slip-It by Platinum Coast a MUST watch

Ok...this is too funny!! I place this in the category of MUST watch You-Tube. Way to go to our Platinum coast brethren!!

Episode 183: “Ten Networking Questions”

In this episode of Dr. Misner's weekly podcasts, he discusses ten networking questions to ask. #1 How did you get started in your business? #2 What do you like most about your business? For more of the questions... You can access the link by clicking here.

From Naysayer to Leading Referrer

Hey check out this month's Success Net! Prominently featured is the President of the Champions!...yours truly!! This is a tremendous honor and I am humbled to be featured in this month's issue. You visit Success Net by clicking here. Enjoy the post!

President's Weekly Letter, Champions SoCal BNI

Wooooooo, CHAMPIONS!!

Well, well, I believe the Champions enjoyed turkey day and the four day holiday a great deal as the energy level needed a little lift once the Champions were called promptly at 7:45. The room was rather sparse with visitors but we did welcome Peter Buechler, a certified financial planner with Cohesive Financial. Peter subbed for Angelo but seemed very interested in applying if we can find an open category for him. I noticed that Peter and Steven Stakley were in serious talks about how they could work together and not conflict. Recognition ruled the day however as the meeting was highlighted by several recognition opportunities:

International Tabasco Award for "hottest" SMM:

.........and the winner was........Chris Vasquez!! Congrats Chris. Your name now is permanently attached to the hallowed pepper and a small bottle will be placed prominently in front of your seat from here forth. You get to start the SMMs next week and choose the winner.

October Leaders in 1-2-1s, referrals, and visitors:

Greg Beck, Bo Lowe, Ela Corcoran, Brett Adolph (absent because of strep throat...wait, that's what Jenni has...must be going around...feel better guys!!), and Dr. Paul Kwik were all called to the dais and the leaders announced...Brett for 1-2-1s and referrals...Chapter Star?? and Dr. Paul with the visitors!

Champions Spark Plug (awarded to the Champion who went above and beyond):

Given during the Stand and Deliver portion of the meeting to emphasize its importance, to Ms. Rosanne Grigsby who while moving, servicing an ailing auto, nursing a sick mom back to health, still found time to plan the Champions Christmas Social, design and print a brochure to announce the event, plan the menu (she will prepare it also)...whew!! You can see why she won! Thanks for making the chapter GREAT, Rosanne!

Stack Day Winners:

They call them "mellow yellow"!!...the winner is the Yellow Team. Give it up for the Yellow Team Cap, Ela Corcoran and her teammates: Robert, Rutger, Brett, Jim Sando, James, and Bo. The team finished with 860 points...Champion effort, mellow yellow!!

Outstanding Keynotes:

We had the privilege of hearing Michael Figueroa and Tom Roberts today. Michael gave us a primer on wood floors and the subtle difference between engineered and "tree". Michael has built his career on the saying that "if you do it right, they will tell a friend, if you do it wrong, they will tell the world!"...great motto for word of mouth referring. Michael would like introductions to hospital facility managers as he has extensive experience in hospital flooring. Tom is in transition and did a brilliant job of outlining his background, accomplishments (Eagle Scout), Skills, and perfect companies for his services. Tom epitomized the BSA slogan and was VERY prepared for the presentation. I believe that all of the Champions left with a much better understanding of the position Tom is seeking.

EC Moment:

Jim Sando took a risk and asked for audience participation in answering "what is your biggest obstacle to receiving more referrals?" The question was one of the many survey questions that Jim asked of the chapter before his term began and these survey questions have formed the bases for many of Jim's EC moments. The prevailing reasons seem to be the segue from conversation to request and knowledge of those in need of the services. A specific ask in the SMM should help all of the Champions receive more quality referrals...and the Tabasco Award!!

Chapter Biz:

November vs October...more 1-2-1s, more referrals, more visitors!!

TYFCB...$58,900 this month...$26,000 ahead of Oct and Nov of 2009!! Ka-Ching!!!

Due$ are due so don't be blue next week!!

Christmas Social, Thursday December 9th, Branding Personality, 6:30-8:00. If you want to participate in the gift exchange, bring a wrapped gift for you and one for your spouse, guest, significant other, etc.

December 21, last regular meeting of this year, we will participate with Dawn Revelle and the Spark of Love toy campaign and contribute unwrapped toys. Dawn will be at our meeting to take the toys with her. Dawn was featured in the OC Register last weekend. You can read the article by clicking here.

The meeting was closed with a dialogue quote from the movie Airplane in memory of Leslie Neilsen who died last weekend.

Make it a Champion week!!

Episode 182: “The Best 60-Second Presentation I Ever Heard”

In this week's episode of the BNI podcast, Dr. Misner discusses the very best 60 second commercial he has ever heard. The results will surprise you...it is not about the "memory hook".

You can listen to the podcast by clicking here. Enjoy the information!

November Chapter Success Forum

One of the highlights of my BNI month is attending the Chapter Success Forum! I attended my first one out of shear curiosity back in February of 2010. I was new to BNI and wanted to see what the Forum was all about. Man, was I impressed! Clement Muwele was the moderator and the group met at Mimis on Euclid in Anaheim. I was visitor host at the time and ironically the topic was "how to make the visitor host position more effective!" I took away MANY helpful ideas and couldn't wait until the next one. Well the next one was headed by Nancy Board...great, but different! My keen investigation uncovered the fact that each Forum is headed by a new director each month AND the Chapter Success Forum used to be the President's Success Forum until the attendance became diluted and others subbed for the Presidents. What has emerged is a GREAT way to expand your Visibility, meet other chapter members as well as directors and enhance your BNI "givers gain" experience! Yesterday's meeting at Mimis on 17th in Tustin was headed by Todd Hansberger, SoCal Director, a member of the Yorba Linda BNI and owner of a pest control company. Todd's wife Kris, a member of Platinum Coast (a small start-up in South County ;)) was also in attendance. Great job you two! You know the Forum is well presented when another director, Lem Bucago attends!

The two topics well discussed were Inviting and the Hidden Visitor Opps of your BNI Meetings:

Inviting: (consider these ideas)

Place emphasis upon it in meetings

Check our attitude before opening our mouth

Use social media marketing to attract visitors (LinkedIn, Facebook, and Meetup, etc.)

Follow your dollars

Would you pay $1000 for $20,000 in new business?

Convert a cold call on you to a visitor

Use your business blog to attract visitors

Use MS Tags as an inviting technique

Stack Days, Stack Days and more Stack Days

Remember your role as President...your are a visitor host on steroids!

Meeting Visitor Hidden Opps: (consider these and make your meetings shine!)

Arrive early...visitors do

Use open groups vs closed groups

Create a "buzz" during open networking with a question

Early bird prizes

Keep the meeting distraction to a minimum

BE PREPARED...motto of BSA...but true in BNI

Wear your name badges...paper badges for those who forgot confuse visitors

Recognition

Consider attending a Forum! You will not be disappointed.

President's Weekly Letter, Champions SoCal BNI

Wooooooooo, CHAMPIONS!!

The Champions chapter of SoCal BNI welcomed Darice Nicoletti from Nicoletti Creative and second time visitor, Jason Becker from Sunset Signs and Printing! Additionally, the Champions welcomed an esteemed visitor, President of Velocity chapter and a member of our President's Power Team, Cary Facer!

Today was prop day! The anticipation built until the first SMMs were delivered!! The Champions patiently waited in the breakfast line, called the Champions, listened to visitor intros, L/T intros and the EC moment...all the while anticipating their turn to deliver their SMM with a prop and vie for the coveted Tabasco award for the "hottest" SMM. The Champions had the 1000 yard stare as each rehearsed their 30 second pitch and silently wondered if the "pepper" would find its place in front of their seat...ahh the Tabasco award. Who knew that the pace would be sooo frenetic? We placed a little"spin" on the contest this week. First, the SMM had to include a prop. Second the SMM had to fit within the 30 second time frame and contain a specific ask. As Dr. Misner says..."specific is terrific"!! I have to admit, the profitable introductions are getting much better and the winner is difficult to determine. Dr. Real, last week's winner, gave a valiant stab to start off the competition. Several memorable SMMs were heard. Robert used some old video formats and asked for intros to companies that would like to video introductions; Rosanne used checks and invoices and asked that everyone have a Happy T-giving, and Brett used his mobile phone (did he secretly forget that today was prop day) to demonstrate the fact that he was always available and asked for companies using ADP and Paychex. Steven Stakley used an image of half of a brain to demonstrate "piece of mind" and asked for intros to retirees!...the best pun IMHO. In the end, one of our newest members, Gary Lorge prevailed with a GREAT SMM using...piece of pizza, piece of trash and once again "peace of mind" and asked for auto insureds. So now Mr. Lorge gets to have the pepper displayed!! Way to go Gary!!

EC:

Jim Sando outlined the characteristics of a great SMM...a catchy opening, a story or example, a specific ask, and all done within the time frame. Jim stressed the importance of rehearsing the SMM!! Jim closed with the famous Einstein insanity quote...doing the same things over and over and expecting a different result!

New Member:

The Champions inducted Mr. Randall (Randy Clement) a business attorney from Fullerton. We are VERY happy to have Randy in the chapter and look forward to his contributions. Randy was a group effort as three Champions had a hand in bringing him to the chapter. Rutger will mentor Randy! Welcome number 31...but number 1 in our hearts!!

VP and Membership:

For November, we are on pace to crush our monthly goals for 1-2-1 meetings, referrals, and visitors, and how about $106,569 in TYFCB in the first seven weeks of the new term...KA-CHING!!!

Keynotes:

One veteran BNI member, Jody Houseman, painter extroadinaire; and one somewhat new BNI member, Dr. Paul Kwik...international chiropractor of the Champions, presented our 10 minute topics today. Jody discussed his services, his target market, his contact sphere, his value, and great referrals for him...contractors, interior designers, residential and commercial RE brokers, and of course homeowners. Dr. Paul led us through the "whys" that he became a chiropractor, five people he has helped and how, and perfect referrals for him. The keynotes were well rehearsed and well delivered! Great job you two!!

Stand and Deliver:

We mixed up the "Champions Spark Plug Award" timing to award the plug during Stand and Deliver. Patrick O'Kane, through his tireless efforts as a L/T sub and minute taker was the recipient.

GRC:

Team leaders were announced and the final winners will be determined as the team that achieved the most apps received from the visitors list...stay tuned!!

Announcements:

Champions Christmas Social...Thursday December 9th at 6:30...Branding Personalities, Fullerton. Hors de vours and non alcoholic beverages will be provided!

Champions Toy Drive...bring an unwrapped toy to the meeting on December 21...this is a new date...not the 14th as Dawn will be there on the 21st for her special Christmas wish!! More on this next week.

The meeting was ended with a quote from John Fitzgerald Kennedy about words, deeds and gratitude.

Make it a Champion week! I am THANKFUL for all of you!!

BNI Podcast: Episode 181: “Turn the 80/20 Rule Upside Down”

Click here to listen to this week's podcast on the 80%/20% rule:

Synopsis:

Jim Butcher from Capital Trust Realty, “retired” president of the East Texas and Houston East region of BNI, joins Dr. Misner to talk about how his chapter used Fast Track to ensure that every single member brings 3-4 referral every week. That’s more than 300 referrals per month, up from 100-150 before the program.

The Pareto Principle says that 20% of the people yield 80% of the results. Chapters that find themselves in this position are usually operating at the Visibility level of the VCP process. Once you get to Credibility, you can get 80% of the members bringing results.

One technique they applied is to focus their 60-second commercials on asking for referrals, and even asking for introductions to specific people.

Sign your chapter up for the Fast Track program at www.bninetworkingsecrets.com. Make sure to contact Flynn or Sara to arrange for additional coaching.

Brought to you by Networking Now.

President's Weekly Letter, Champions SoCal BNI

Wooooooooo, Champions!!

Today was an epic meeting as the Champions chapter of SoCal BNI welcomed the ten visitors (pictured to the left) to our first Stack Day of this term!!! Way to go Champions...way to turn 'em out! What is more impressive is that we received three apps from the ten visitors with a couple of maybes! That is called blocking out your competition. Our three categories of Business Attorney, Hair Dresser and Merchant Services will soon be filled...we hope!! From left to right our visitors pictured are: Virginia Croudace, business attorney; Jason Becker, Sunset Signs; Jerome D. Stark, business attorney; John Brennan, Associated HVAC; Theresa Williams, Hertz; Brenda Broussard, hairstylist; Carmina Perez, FIS Merchant Services; Dan Georgopoulos; DGVC Visuals; Peter Zazzara, general contractor; and Louis Alonzo, Avery Weigh-Tronix. We hope all of our visitors will return for a second visit really soon. It was GREAT having all of them!!

EC Moment:

Mr. Jiiiiiiimmmm Sando shared with us the results of a recent survey conducted with our membership regarding the SMMs. Jim expertly described the responses to five questions about the chapter's perception of SMMs, their effectiveness, and the trepidation that occurs when preparing and delivering them. Stay tuned next week for the elements of a perfect SMM...OR...just listen to the Tabasco winners...See below.

New Champion:

I had the privilege of inducting our third new member of the term, Joe Davis, an estate planning attorney! Joe was sponsored by Dr. Paul Kwik and will be mentored by Gary Lorge. Dr. Paul, Gary and Joe joined me at the podium and recited the BNI code of ethics. Joe is now our 30th Champion and we are VERY happy that he is a member of our chapter!

The Tabasco Award:

The Tabasco award is gaining steam...no pun intended! For the third straight week a new Champion was awarded the Tabasco award for the "hottest" SMM. This week was a close competition as several Champions "upped their game" with the pepper on the line! Angelo Dionisiou brought in several umbrellas, Maurice Herron made his usual strong effort (he will probably be the first two time winner) and Greg Beck quipped...."you just may need a new CPA!" In the end Dr. Hercules Real won the award. I will never look at a cracked egg quite the same...Remember next week, Dr. Real begins the SMMs as this week's Tabasco winner and delivers the award to the "hottest" SMM next week and so on. Every week the past week's winners will have a small bottle of Tabasco in front of their seat as a reminder that they were a past winner. I believe this will become a GREAT Champion's tradition. Don' forget next week is prop week so your SMM must include a prop...I cannot wait!!

VP Report:

The Champions are on track to exceed our monthly goals for one-to-ones, visitors, and TYFCB. We need to step up the pace on those referrals...I know we can do it!! We have a pending transfer app for Randy Clement, a business attorney.

Keynotes:

We were informed and entertained by the keynote presenters, Chuck Tipton and Gary Lorge! Both were making their maiden voyages with a great deal of pressure as Stack Day presenters. Both performed brilliantly and I believe our visitors have a great understanding of SBA loans (Tipton) and auto insurance (Lorge)...we all felt like "good neighbors!" Chuck recited his company, Spectrum Commercial Lending's mission statement, reviewed the management team...former B of A producers, and described good referral sources for his services. As one of Chuck's power partners, I have referred Chuck extensively and believe he is the BEST at what he does! Gary Lorge educated us about car insurance, had numerous questions and give aways and described good ways to refer him. The amazing thing that happened during one of Gary's questions was that Rosanne Grigsby (Sec/Treas) re-canted what year (1962) that California's liability limits came into effect...who knew? The Champions chapter is VERY fortunate to have two professionals such as Chuck and Gary on board! Thanks guys!! We are also fortunate to have a secretary/treasurer with such and active recall of numbers and dates...better pay those dues on time...

Stand and Deliver:

We stood and delivered many, many one-to-one slips, referrals, testimonials, and TYFCB. I believe the visitors (who collectively enjoyed our enthusiasm) were impressed with the amount of paper that ended up in the bowl!

The action quote was from JD Rockefeller and challenged us to transform each disaster into an opportunity!!

Make it a Champion week!!

President's Weekly Letter, Champions SoCal BNI

Woooooooo, CHAMPIONS!!!

Champions SoCal BNI went international today!! We welcomed two international guests that are in town to attend the International BNI Conference in SoCal this week. Bianca Kroon from the Netherlands and Tekst College and Fred van Zwieten, the Executive Director from Den Haag in the Netherlands as well. I had the honor of chauffeuring our two esteemed guests to and from the Hyatt and thoroughly enjoyed learning about them and then hearing their feedback about the Champions!!

Pictured at the right are Greg Beck, VP, me, Bianca Kroon, Fred van Zwieten, and Rosanne Grigsby, Secretary/Treasurer.

Bianca delivered to the Champions some of the best cookies I have ever tasted and the Champions chapter gave both guests a goodie bag filled with Champions swag. Today was truly a treat and we are soo happy that Bianca and Fred chose to visit our chapter. We also welcomed three other visiting BNI members...Randy Clement, a business attorney, Jim Reyes, a staffing services rep, and Liz Matthews, a Mary Kay cosmetics consultant! Stephanie Quick subbed for Doug Luchansky of ACI.


SMMs:
We called the Champions promptly at 7:45 and proceeded through the meeting with much excitement! The biggest hit of the day was the "Tabasco award" for the hottest SMM. Maurice Herron delivered the first SMM as the Tabasco winner from last week. The SMMs were all great and there were some VERY close encounters. In the end, Maurice chose Bo Lowe for his broken arm, stamped headed request for appreciation marketing. Next week Bo will go first and select his winner of the increasingly popular Tabasco award! Bianca and Fred plan to incorporate this idea into their chapter meetings in the Netherlands. I wonder if the have Tabasco there??


EC Moment:
Jim Sando reminded us in the EC moment that we are a sales organization and that we track stats. He encouraged us to reach out to those in the chapter that are in need of assistance delivering referrals and give them helpful tips to increase their volume.


VP and Membership:
The Champions, last week, passed 26 referrals, completed 62 1-2-1 meetings, welcomed 2 visitors, and achieved TYFCB of $12,944...Ka Ching!!


Keynotes: (video to follow)
Two terrific Keynotes were delivered by Ela Corcoran and Richard Lane. Ela spoke on aging. Ela's slogan is "how old you are is not her business...but how you age is!" Ela's keys to success are her drive, her faith, and her commitment. We are soo happy that Ela is a Champion.



Richard Lane spoke about his passion...computers. Richard skillfully outlined three key things to consider with respect to his services...Employ two screens, Have a good back up system, and configure your smart phone correctly. I recently bought a computer from Richard and he is the best. I know that Richard's message resonated with our guests! Bianca and Fred were trying to figure out how to buy a machine here and ship it to the Netherlands. Way to go Richard...visitors DO in fact buy!!



Stand and Deliver:
Fred gave his stand and deliver in his native tongue. Only two others understood...but Rutger said we were good!! Whew...

GRC:
Next week is a BIG week with stack day! Attention all business attorneys, hairdressers, and merchant service providers...WE WANT YOU to be a Champion!! Come to our meeting next week!!

The meeting was closed with an action quote from the late Robert F. Kennedy!

Make it a Champion Week!!

Harvey Mackay in SoCal, What a Treat

Harvey Mackay will be the guest speaker this Friday, November 12th at the International BNI Conference in Garden Grove, California. I have followed Mr. Mackay's sage wisdom throughout the years and have benefitted greatly from his advice on networking, relationship building, and professional selling. I read his "Shark" book early in my career in real estate and have incorporated his Mackay's 66 into my customer data base. Mr. Mackay writes a syndicated column that appears in the business section of the Orange County Register. Yesterday's column, in my belief, was quite timely on the subject of networking. The column, which you can read by clicking here, is entitled, Expanding Your Network Expands Your Business.

In the column referenced above, I particularly enjoyed the letters "R" "R is for reciprosity. You give, you get. You no give, you no get..." and "V" "V is for visibility. You've got to get involved in organizations and groups to get connected, but don't confuse visibility with credibility..." BNI members share the common "giver's gain" and "VCP" priciples with Mr. Mackay.

A You Tube Interview with Mr. Mackay on Networking:

A Brief Bio:

Harvey Mackay is the author of the New York Times #1 bestsellers Swim With The Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive and Beware the Naked Man Who Offers You His Shirt. Both books are among the top 15 inspirational business books of all time, according to the New York Times. In total, Harvey's books have sold 10 million copies worldwide, been translated into 37 languages and sold in 80 countries.

Harvey is a nationally syndicated columnist for United Feature Syndicate, whose weekly articles appear in 52 newspapers around the country, including the Chicago Sun Times, Rocky Mountain News, Orange County Register, Minneapolis Star Tribune and Arizona Republic.

He also is one of America's most popular and entertaining business speakers. Toastmasters International named him one of the top five speakers in the world.

At age 26, he purchased a small, failing envelope company in 1959 which has grown to a $100 million business employing over 600 people. MackayMitchell Envelope Company is one of the nation's major envelope manufacturers, producing 25 million envelopes a day. As chairman, Harvey's philosophy is engrained in the company, beginning with its motto: Do what you love, love what you do and deliver more than you promise.

Harvey is a graduate of the University of Minnesota and the Stanford University Graduate School of Business Executive Program. He is an avid runner and marathoner, and former #1 ranked tennis player in Minnesota.

He currently sits on the board of the Minnesota Orchestra and is a former director on Robert Redford's Sundance Institute and the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management. He has been a guest lecturer at various universities and business schools, including Harvard, Stanford, Michigan, Cornell, Wharton and Penn State.

Central to Harvey's business, and to his books, is the ability to stay competitive in the often cut-throat world of business, to 'swim with the sharks', without sacrificing one's personal integrity or doing it at the expense of other people. He does this by focusing on building strong relationships with both customers and employees.

In fact, Harvey is a master of networking. He believes most people make the mistake of only turning to their network when they need it; for example, when they're looking for a new job. Harvey says that networking is a lifelong practice that provides you with new knowledge and experiences, job security, expanded financial reach, and the strength of the group. The secret to maintaining a great network is, above all, knowing the value of the personal touch.

In spite of his hectic schedule, Harvey still finds plenty of time for family and fun. He's an avid golfer (11.4 handicap) and recently won the Super Senior Men's Championship at his home club in Scottsdale!

He and his wife, Carol Ann, have been married over 45 years, and enjoy spending time with their nine grandchildren. They are avid travelers, taking an annual trip to Italy, and planning upcoming tours of China and Africa.

Success Net, November Issue! Champions!!

The November issue of "Success Net" is now available and you can connect to the issue by clicking here! Champions is prominently mentioned and a link to this blog is included. Way to go Champions!!!

The team that gave us such a memorable evening is pictured at the right. They are left to right; Deanna Abrahams, Kitty Rudometkin, Dan Fowler, Dr. Ivan Misner, Jenni Nering,

Sara Greenway, and Lisette Silverman. 2 committee members are not pictured (Lily Otieno and Nancy Board).

President's Weekly Letter, Champions SoCal BNI

Wooooooooo, CHAMPIONS!!!

The Champions Chapter of SoCal BNI greeted an election day with energy befitting such an historic event!! We welcomed four visitors, Joel Bash from Qualified Business Introductions, Ruth Colwell, our own Clay's "sister", and Clarke Pauley and Linda Rouyer from Source Solution Group. Mark Apicella Jr. from Turn Key Remodel and the Business Connections Chapter subbed for Bo Lowe and our Director, and training expert, Lem Bucago also attended. The room was full of vim and vigor as I "called the Champions!"

EC Moment:

Jim Sando delivered his usually well prepared moment with his point that he now views our chapter members as partners. Jim also unveiled a grid that will track all of our progress in attaining the four star ribbons for Advanced MSPs. Rosanne Grigsby received her four star ribbon to complete the trifecta of leadership team four star recipients. Great job Jim and Rosanne!!

New Member:

I had the pleasure of inducting Maurice Herron from Stratus Building Solutions as our newest Champion! I sponsored Maurice and his visit was a result of a cold call he made on me. I asked how he would like to make that pitch to 30 business people...who wouldn't? Maurice is a snappy dresser who will rival Lem Bucago as the nattiest dresser in SoCal BNI. Welcome Maurice!!

October Winners:

Referrals, Brett Adolph with 9, Visitors, Dr. Paul with 2, and 1-2-1 Meetings, Brett Adolph with 15...Congrats to a new regime...can you say Chapter Star award?? And Sparky went to...wait for it...Jim Sando for the survey and training grid...very positive contribution, Mr. Sando!!

SMMs:

Maurice Herron delivered his first SMM as a member of Champions and won the inaugural "Tobasco" Award for the hottest message! Maurice will start the SMMs next week and will select the "hottest" SMM next week and so on and so on!!...and he approved this message!

VP and Membership:

Greg Beck reported how the Champions fared last month in referrals, 134; 1-2-1 meetings, 165; visitors, 11; and TYFCB, $56, 738...Ka Ching!! One down, Eleven to go to meet those goals!!

Keynote:

Our Director, Lem Bucago presented an in depth message on that crucial "first 15 minutes" of the meeting. You should have a plan, You should decide who to meet, and you should bring your tools...business cards, a big smile, a Champion attitude, your smart phone (for calendaring 1-2-1 meetings), a pen and paper for notes, and a name tag...not a business card holder. Lem also shared with us his time management saying...if you are early, you are on time; if you are on time, you are late; if you are late, you are fired! Thanks for sharing Lem!! It is always a privilege!!

GRC:

Our new GRC committee chair Michael Figueroa reminded us of the stack day coming up in two weeks.

After a few announcements...especially the upcoming member event on November 12th at the International Conference...the meeting was closed with a quote by John Quincy Adams and an action call to exercise our American right and VOTE!!

Make it a Champion week!!

Champions Microsoft Tag

Woooooooo, CHAMPIONS!!

OK, this is REALLY cool!! You will need to download the tag reader on your smart phone to read the code to the left. The website is http://gettag.mobi. Once you have the reader, point toward the code and you will be delivered directly to the blog from your mobile device!! More to come on this exciting technology!!

Episode 178: “Yeah, But I’m Different”, Official BNI Podcast

In this week's podcast, Dr. Misner talks about the “Yeah, But” syndrome, which is really just an excuse to avoid doing something we don’t want to do. When it comes to ourselves, we’re always the exception. We think rules are for other people. But there’s no good excuse for avoiding personal development. Stop trying to avoid the proven methods. The basics work. No exception. BNI operates in 44 countries. Our chapter, your profession, can succeed if you’re willing to put in the effort. We’ll all be better off if we stop hiding behind our differences and look for the similarities.

You can listen to the podcast by clicking here. Enjoy!

Chapter Success Forum, Lem Style!!

What do Mimi's in Tustin, Lem Bucago, a room full of motivated energetic people, and Champions have in common??...if you guessed Chapter Success Forum, you are correct!! Winner, winner, chicken dinner!! The first Chapter Success Forum of the new term was held yesterday at the Mimi's on 17th in Tustin. We were fortunate to have at least three chapter presidents in attendance as well as 25 other BNI faithful.

Lem Bucago, SoCal BNI Director of the Champions, Business Connection, and Yorba Linda BNI and a member of Velocity hosted the meeting and kept the content flowing and interactional! Many, many great ideas were discussed including:

How are we doing in our new roles?

Great!! Harold from the Firm, Spectacular!! Dan Canzoni from Orange BNI

What new meeting ideas have emerged?

A vote on the best SMM, from Network Builders, a blog from Champions, and several new Facebook Business and Group pages.

Some issues that have arisen:

Transitions, Rosanne Grigsby, Champions. Harold from the Firm pre-empted the transition by allowing the new L/T to transition 30 days prior to the 1st of October to ease the pain. Bill Edman, from the Champions is getting used to his new role in membership. Bill from Business Connections believes that the Member Minimums have helped.

Networking strategies that work:

Bring enough cards, don't come and sit, check in and move around, stay before and after, have an action strategy, and participate!!

Attracting visitors:

Stack days, the "Kitty" infusion, identifying members within the same company that could join another BNI chapter, intra chapter competitions, turn a "cold call" into a visitor, fortune in the follow up, and visitor days.

Lem closed with a hearty announcement to attend the Member Day at the International conference on November 12th at the Garden Grove Hyatt!!

Forums rock!!