Scratch my back vs BNI and referral networking groups
BNI and similar groups trade referrals through paid memberships and regular meetings. Scratch my back does it online, for free, whenever you need it.
The short answer
Referral networking groups like BNI bring local businesses together at regular meetings to pass each other referrals, usually for a membership fee. Scratch my back is an online board for the same idea: say who you can refer and who you want, and trade with people anywhere.
How they differ
- Cost: networking groups usually charge membership fees. Scratch my back is free to join.
- Time: groups meet on a schedule. On Scratch my back you post once and people reach out when it fits.
- Reach: groups are usually local, with one member per profession. Scratch my back is open to anyone, anywhere.
- What’s traded: groups focus on referrals. Scratch my back also covers favours like feedback, testing and audience mentions.
When a networking group is better
If you sell locally and value meeting the same people in person every week, a local group can build deep trust. Many people do both: a local group for in-person relationships, and Scratch my back for everything else.
Trade help, not money
Post what you can do for someone and what you’d like back, or find someone offering exactly what you need.
Updated September 2026