BNI 842: Can the Chapter Award a Free Absence? – Episode Summary

In episode 842 of "BNI & The Power of One," host Tim Roberts delves into a pertinent question submitted by a listener concerning the possibility of awarding free absences to BNI chapter members. This episode provides an in-depth analysis of BNI's attendance policies, the implications of modifying these policies, and offers strategic recommendations for maintaining accountability within chapters.

Introduction to the Topic

The episode kicks off with Tim addressing a listener's query submitted anonymously through the BNI Power of One platform (00:00). The question revolves around a proposed chapter policy where members who attend meetings with typically low attendance—such as those falling on federal holidays—would be granted a free absence. This initiative aims to encourage participation during times when meetings might otherwise see reduced turnout.

Notable Quote:

"It says during a discussion with another BNI member, they stated that their chapter gives a quote free absence to members who show up to meetings that might not well be well attended." (00:00)

Understanding BNI’s Attendance Policy

Tim begins by clarifying BNI's official stance on attendance. According to BNI's policies, members are allowed a maximum of three absences within a rolling six-month period. This policy is designed to ensure consistent participation and accountability among members.

Notable Quote:

"Does it weaken the attendance policy accountability in a chapter? Thanks for taking my question and yes it does. And it does not fit the attendance policy at all." (00:00)

Analyzing the Proposal for Free Absences

Tim critically examines the proposal to award free absences, highlighting several potential issues:

1. Policy Inconsistency: Introducing free absences contradicts the existing BNI policy, which strictly limits absences to three within six months.

2. Slippery Slope: Implementing such a policy could lead to unintended consequences, making it challenging to track absences accurately, especially with changes in chapter leadership.

3. Accountability Erosion: Offering free absences may encourage members to skip meetings casually, undermining the commitment expected within the chapter.

Notable Quote:

"I get the concept, I get it. It's kind of, it's a slippery slope. It's going to be probably not as easy to track, especially with transition of leadership teams and all you're doing is punting a future problem anyways." (00:00)

Recommendations Against Free Absences

Tim firmly advises against adopting the free absence policy, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established attendance guidelines. He argues that maintaining strict attendance policies fosters a sense of responsibility and ensures that all members contribute equally to the chapter's success.

Notable Quote:

"If the chapter is decided to meet, it's a meeting. If you can't go for whatever reason, vacation, holiday, you just use one of your absences." (00:00)

Alternative Strategies for Managing Low-Attendance Meetings

Instead of offering free absences, Tim suggests alternative approaches to handle meetings that coincide with holidays or periods of typically low attendance:

1. Maintain Regular Meetings: Hold the meeting as scheduled, allowing attendance to reflect each member's commitment.

2. Use Existing Absences: Encourage members to use their allotted absences if they cannot attend, without introducing additional allowances.

3. Leverage Substitutes: Members have the option to bring substitutes, which does not count against their absence quota.

Notable Quote:

"The ones around the holidays are the ones in the most interest for you, because those are the ones where you know all your fellow members, where they're going to be and who they're meeting and what kind of setting they're meeting them." (00:00)

The Importance of the Rolling Six-Month Policy

Tim provides historical context on the evolution of BNI's attendance policy. Previously, the policy was segmented into fixed terms, which led to members "banking" their absences. Recognizing this loophole, BNI transitioned to a rolling six-month policy to promote continuous accountability.

Notable Quote:

"Because it's rolling now. And because it's rolling, I wouldn't be adding anything to it. Anything else, they roll off too." (00:00)

Potential Consequences of Altering Attendance Policies

Altering the attendance policy to include free absences could disrupt the automated tracking system within BNI Connect, leading to confusion and administrative challenges. Tim warns that such changes are likely to create more problems than they solve, detracting from the chapter's overall effectiveness.

Notable Quote:

"BNI Connect sends automated messages when people trigger certain attendance things in their POMS report. That's never going to match up to this play and it's only going to cause mass confusion." (00:00)

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Tim concludes the episode by reiterating his strong opposition to the proposal of awarding free absences. He emphasizes the importance of upholding BNI's attendance policies to maintain the integrity and productivity of the chapter. By adhering to established guidelines, chapters can ensure that all members remain engaged and committed, ultimately contributing to collective success.

Notable Quote:

"But it's a great question. It's really interesting that somebody's thought of this and that they're trying it, but my advice and my recommendation is no. Hell no. Almost definitely don't do it." (00:00)

Key Takeaways

• Adherence to Policies: It's crucial for BNI chapters to adhere strictly to established attendance policies to maintain accountability and effectiveness.

• Avoiding Policy Loopholes: Introducing measures like free absences can create loopholes that undermine the chapter's structure and commitment.

• Alternative Solutions: Utilizing existing absence allowances and encouraging substitute participation are more effective strategies for managing low-attendance periods.

For more insights and discussions on enhancing your BNI membership, tune into future episodes of "BNI & The Power of One." Engage with the community by submitting your questions and topics at benipowerone.com.