Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone join a chapter?
We only take one person per professional specialty. So if you are a residential real estate person and we already have one, we can refer you to another chapter, or allow you to open another chapter. Of course, if you are a commercial real estate person, you could be eligible to join this chapter.

How do you know new members are reputable?
The application asks for references and we have a membership committee that checks them. It is word of mouth, so before they even come to a meeting they have to have spoken to someone or been invited by someone in the group. Everyone has to have a sponsor, or one is assigned to them, and they interview them.

What occupations benefit the most from networking?
It is not the occupation, it is the individual. The occupation can be anything. If you're focused and you have a dream and you're willing to make a sacrifice, you are the person we want in the group.

My profession does not let me directly solicit business. Is BNI still right for me?
BNI’s primary objective is to assist its members in ways to improve their business and to educate them concerning how they can effectively network. Business people get business when their expertise is known and others reach a comfort level with them. BNI provides a forum that allows members to meet other business peers who need to know effective and efficient business people.

Are members supposed to bring visitors?
Yes! If you have associates who do some occasional referrals with you, invite them to join you! You're encouraged to bring visitors for those occupations that are open, after the visitor has been prescreened, if they're a viable candidate to also become a member of the chapter.. It's pretty much a closed meeting except for potential members. One of the best benefits of BNI is that we’ll train all of our members on how to refer effectively. Bring your friends and people you know that do good business. Upon acceptance of your membership, you both will be taught the same thing…how to give and receive more referrals. This can grow your business between the two of you!

Do I have to be there every week?
We have an attendance policy. The purpose of the policy is not to kick members out …but to keep members in. Weekly attendance is required. (You can have an occasional sub). The more consistent you are with your attendance, the more you’ll show the members of your chapter that you’re: professional, committed, trustworthy and reliable. These values and traits go a long way in confidently referring you to our best clients and friends.

I’m not sure I’ll be able to give referrals?
Many people have had this concern when they first discovered BNI. Don’t worry… we’ll teach you what you need to know to make referrals happen…both the giving and the receiving! We don’t leave your success to chance. Referrals happen everyday. With a little bit of instruction, you’ll be on your way to developing a great word of mouth referral business.

How much does it cost?
Just like you can’t get a hair cut over the telephone, you can’t really experience the benefit of BNI over the internet. Come join us for breakfast, bring your business cards and enjoy what it’s like to be part of a truly professional networking organization! You’ll get all your questions answered at the meeting in detail. This is an opportunity that’s affordable to everyone. Most people get enough referrals after going to the MSP class to cover the cost of BNI for years to come. This is actually something you can’t afford not to do!

›› Each week our members are:

referring business to each other
promoting their business with 60-second commercials
taking a turn giving in-depth presentation about their services
networking with fellow members
eating a healthy breakfast
enjoying beautiful surroundings

Plenty of free parking is available.
Email now to reserve your spot for our next meeting!

Read more F.A.Q.’s through www.BNI.com.