BNI Downtown Connection | FAQ | Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can anyone join a chapter?

A: We only take one person per professional specialty. If you are a residential real estate person, for example, and we already have one, we can refer you to another chapter, or allow 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. We recruit by word-of-mouth, so before anyone even comes to a meeting, they have spoken to someone with BNI or received an invitation from a group member. Every potential member must have a sponsor (or one is assigned to them).

Q: What if a member gets a referral and does poor work?

A: This is a rare occurrence, due to the makeup of the people who commit to BNI. However, it is imperative that anyone who finds out that a referral was not satisfactorily handled report that to the Membership Committee, which will investigate.

Q: What occupations benefit the most from networking?

A: It’s not the occupation that determines success; it’s the individual. People who are focused, have a dream and are willing to help others achieve their dreams are those we want in the group.

Q: Are members supposed to bring visitors?

A: Members are encouraged to bring visitors for those occupations that are open. It's a closed meeting except for current and potential members.

Q: What are the primary objectives of BNI?

A: BNI’s primary objectives are to assist members in ways to improve their businesses and to educate about effective networking. Professionals get business when their expertise is known and others reach a comfort level with them. BNI provides a forum that allows members to meet business peers who need to know effective and efficient businesspeople.