About Business Development Resources
BDR was formed in August 2004 by a group of business people wanting to actively share information and knowledge and to educate and mentor one another for personal and business growth in a safe and challenging environment. BDR stands for “Business Development Resources” working by “Empowering Small Businesses to Connect, Grow and Prosper”.
BDR members may generally hold Exclusive Privilege to the group based their business category or area of service/expertise.
First of all, just BREATHE.
We like being here and want to share our wealth of friendship, business experience and education. Walking through the door the first time is always hard for any new experience. You will feel and be welcome. Doors open at 7 am. Sign in and get some coffee and bakery.
Bring business cards, enough to give extras.
We keep them to give to people we meet or know who really need your service, during the course of doing business. We are not hard hitting, grab your card, stuff ours in your hand and go to the next person people. Real referrals are developed through relationships built on trust. You worked hard for your customer. Why would you jeopardize that relationship by giving it someone you didn’t know or feel comfortable with? Why waste your time responding to a referral that you know was given to meet criteria and not what you really want or need? There is a “Referrals and Testimonials” request during the meeting but this function is working all the time. Referrals are given at the moment they are needed, often handing the business card or telephone to the prospective client. It pays to let others know what you do and what they do.
Introduce yourself and your business to the group.
We give a 30 second introduction or “elevator speech” at each meeting. This is a safe experience. This is the opportunity to experiment and improve the presentation of your business in a supportive environment. Mistakes are learning experiences and understood by all. Levity is friendly, lightens the mood and promotes growth. Remember, make mistakes here and you will be relaxed when you are in front of your new client. Shy? Go at your own pace. Start with your comfort zone but plan to expand as time goes on. You will begin to look forward to this. You’ll see.
The general meeting starts at 7:30 am and ends at 8:30 am.
This year’s focus program is called “Connecting the Dots” It’s about you, your personal and your business style, your business results and personal satisfaction” So much happens here that often the meeting continues as “parking lot” chats – literally in the parking lot or conference room! This is allows for one on one interaction for those who can spend the time. This is one group that likes to network together.
Dues that work for you.
Members in good standing attend guest speaker seminars and bring guests, as a perk, for free. Refreshments, meeting location rental costs, some equipment leasing and offered education al programs are also included.
Talk to a member and request an invitation to attend one of our meetings.
BDR has a rule of Exclusivity Privilege to provide confidentiality. As long as your business does not conflict with a member with the Exclusivity Privilege in that business category, your application will be considered.
Our By-Laws
Our most recent By-Laws have been updated on December 6, 2007. Click here to take a look.
BDR is filled with nice people growing their business by connecting with other businesses so they all prosper!