FAQ

Q: Can anyone join a chapter?
A: We only accept one person from any one professional classification. So if you are a residential real estate person and we already have one, we can refer you to another chapter, or assist you to open another chapter.

Q: How do you know new members are reputable?
A: The application asks for references and we have a membership committee that checks them. It's 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 must have a sponsor, or one is assigned to them, and we interview them. The membership committee is also responsible for seeing to it that members adhere to the BNI Code of Ethics.

Q: What if a member gets a referral and does poor work?
A: We have an ethics committee that has the authority to review and take action regarding any violation of our Code of Ethics. Anyone who gives a referral and finds out it was not satisfactorily handled must report it to the membership committee, who will investigate and take action as appropriate.

Q: What occupations benefit the most from networking?
A: 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 invest yourself with a group of similarly minded colleges, you are the person we want in the group.

Q: Are members supposed to bring visitors?
A: Yes, you are encouraged to bring visitors for those occupations that are open. Visitors are permitted to come to two BNI meetings, the same chapter or two different chapters.  Once the visitor has been prescreened, the membership committee will determine if they're a viable candidate and may invite the person to become a member.

Q: Are members required to have a referral every week?
A: While members are encouraged to bring a referral every week, the quality of the referral is far more important.  BNI looks to a 50% close out rate for referrals given.  We understand that new members may not be able to bring in a referral every week, while more experienced members may have several referrals every week.