The Maitland chapter of Business Network International (BNI) became the first of six branches in the Hunter Region and Central Coast to break $1 million in referred business.

The chapter is now looking towards its second million.

BNI is a business referral organisation that helps its members find and exchange qualified business referrals for each other and develop word-of-mouth marketing techniques.

Maitland members include Tranter Lawyers, Abode Electrical, the Mortgage Bureau Maitland, Harvey World Travel Maitland, East Maitland Florist, Somerset Pest Control, Beresfield Cleaning Service and Gecko Security.

The chapter achieved $1 million in referrals in two years.

It was able to quantify the value of each referral through a tracking system.

President Glenn Ziernik, of AcroPlan, said unlike other networking groups, BNI provided its members with a professional structure and ongoing training to enable members to network in a purposeful way as well as constantly updating their referral marketing skills.

He said the chapter was also a shield against a slow down in the economy brought on by rising interest rates and rising costs.

“Obviously we’re all subject to the economy,” he said.

“But it’s this network that makes that target much more achievable.

“People are happy to go with the people they know.”

Only one business representing particular industries was eligible for membership.

Openings in the Maitland chapter are available for a surveyor, real estate agent, graphic designer, interior decorator, website host, plumber, architect, event planner, chiropractor, stationery supplier, glazier and nutritionist.

The Maitland chapter meets every Wednesday from 7am to 8.30am at the Hunter River Hotel, East Maitland.

Businesses interested in joining can contact Mr Ziernik on 4934 2933.