Ep20: Dr. Ivan Misner: Mastering Networking for Business Growth

Your Business – Your Next Level

In this episode of “Your Business Your Next Level,” host Eunicia Perrette sits down with Dr. Ivan Misner, the founder and Chief Visionary Officer of BNI (Business Network International), the world’s largest business networking organization. With over 40 years of experience in networking and building successful businesses, Ivan shares valuable insights on how entrepreneurs can grow their businesses through effective networking strategies. He discusses the concept of working in your “flame” rather than your “wax,” the importance of focusing on a few key activities to achieve success, and the critical role of mentorship in personal and professional growth. Ivan also provides advice on how to select the right coaches and mentors, emphasizing the importance of experience and proven success. This episode is packed with practical tips for business owners looking to enhance their networking efforts, scale their businesses, and build meaningful relationships.

Key Takeaways:

Work in Your Flame: Ivan explains the importance of finding and working in areas that ignite passion and enthusiasm rather than draining energy, which he refers to as working in your “flame” versus your “wax.”

Focus on Key Activities: Successful business growth comes from doing a few critical things repeatedly and consistently. Ivan advises against spreading efforts too thin and chasing too many opportunities at once.

Value of Mentorship: Surrounding yourself with experienced mentors and coaches who have achieved success is essential for personal and professional growth. Ivan emphasizes the need to seek guidance from those with a proven track record.

Networking as a Long-Term Strategy: Networking should be viewed as a marathon, not a sprint. Building lasting relationships and focusing on giving rather than just receiving will lead to more sustainable success.

Giver’s Gain Philosophy: The core value of BNI, “Giver’s Gain,” embodies the idea that by helping others succeed, you create opportunities for your own success. This approach fosters a culture of collaboration and mutual support.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - Introduction to Dr. Ivan Misner and his background in business networking.

[01:00] - The concept of working in your “flame” versus your “wax.”

[03:00] - Importance of focusing on a few key activities for success.

[05:00] - The role of mentors and how to choose the right ones.

[07:00] - How BNI has grown to over 11,000 chapters worldwide through consistent strategies.

[09:00] - The pitfalls of chasing too many opportunities and the value of persistence.

[12:00] - Discussion on BNI’s “Giver’s Gain” philosophy and its impact on business relationships.

[15:00] - Final thoughts on building a strong network and leveraging it for business growth.

Links & Resources:

- https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivanmisner/

- https://www.facebook.com/IvanMisner.BNIFounder

- https://www.bni.com/

- BooK - The 3rd Paradigm: https://a.co/d/6lxJsng

- Introduced by Steve Ramona: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steveramona/

- The Trasnformational Leadership Council hosted by Jack Canfield Companies: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jack-canfield-companies/

- The E Myth book by Michael Gerber: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelegerber/

- Mentor to Experts by Jim Cathcart: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/

- Someday is Not A Day of the Week book by Sam Horn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samhorn/