Local business owners, sales professionals, contractors and service providers are all welcome to participate in a new organization named What’s in it for Me (WIIFM).

WIIFM is the only business networking group that is internet-based.

Thom Collier, with e-Merge Real Estate Champions, said that Jim Stoner of Jackson Well is a friend of Steve Oleen, the creator and founder of WIIFM, and brought the WIIFM concept to Knox County. 

Collier said Brian Williamson (Western Southern Investments and Insurance), Steve Fleckenstein (Nissan North), Nick Cavinno (Kahrl & Co Insurance) and Kirk Ferchert (Remedial Solutions) are the charter members of the Knox County chapter. 

Collier said the chapter’s system is designed to help everyone prosper.

“Small businesses struggle to obtain good quality leads for their products and services,” he said. “WIIFM provides an opportunity for business owners, sales professionals, contractors, etc., to train their peers to be their sales force and refer trusted neighbors to their clients. It also (allows) the greater community to make referrals and earn an income by helping their friends, neighbors and work associates. It also assures a community member looking for goods or services will find the correct, trusted business to service their needs.” 

Collier added that the chapter is not a service club but a referral and networking organization.  

“The organization benefits the members of the chapter by promoting their business and services, but community members can also benefit by referring individuals and getting paid for their referrals,” he said.   

The chapter may choose a project for the community, but the main benefit for the community will be to support and encourage local businesses, Collier said.

“Thriving small business equals a thriving community,” he added.

The Mount Vernon WIIFM Chapter will meet weekly to share business leads. Those interested in information can email mtvnetworking@gmail.com or call Collier at 740-627-1544.