BNI Frequently Asked Questions

What is BNI?
What are the benefits of joining a BNI chapter?
Can anyone join?
How is a BNI meeting structured?
Can I be a guest before I join?
How do I become a member?
Where does the Partners In Growth chapter meet?
Is there a cost for the breakfast?
Who can I contact for further information?

What is BNI?

BNI is a professional networking organization with over 30 chapters in San Diego and over 2700 chapters world wide. More than 52,000 members have passed 2.5 million referrals generating to over $867 million in business.

BNI stands for Business Network Int'l. The sole purpose of BNI is to increase your business through a structured system of giving referrals. The philosophy of "Givers Gain" is evident in the number of referrals passed each week.

With chapters in 13 countries with over one thing was evident, this is big and is successful. The way BNI accomplished this success was through replication based on time tested structure. Ever BNI chapter in the world has the same itinerary. This means all meetings are conducted in a timely manner. This structured professional networking model was established in 1985 in San Dimas, California by Dr. Ivan Misner.

What are the benefits of joining a BNI chapter?

As a BNI member you receive many benefits:

• Professional, organized, and timely meetings conducted weekly.
  
• New member training to ensure success.
  
• Advanced training and refresher courses (attend as many as you want).
  
• Attend BNI San Diego region All-Chapter events.
  
• Attend exclusive BNI regional, national, and international conferences.
  
• Place a link to your organization's web site on our chapter website www.bni-partnersingrowth.com.
  
• Attend local social mixers, picnics, corporate networking events, and holiday receptions.
  
• And best of all add a volunteer sales force to your corporate sales team.

Can anyone join?

Only one person from each profession is permitted in each BNI chapter. So, for example, if you are a residential real estate professional and we already have one, BNI will refer you to another chapter, or will help you start a new chapter.

How is a BNI meeting structured?

The sole purpose of BNI is to increase your business through a structured system of giving referrals. Breakfast meetings are held weekly from 7:00 - 8:30 a.m. at a designated location. A leadership team with a structured agenda is in place to keep the meeting on-track and on-time. Meetings begin with open networking where visitors have a chance to introduce themselves and discuss their business. An education topic is covered each week. Each member gives a sales manager minute incorporating what specific referral they are seeking. Members actively pass referrals and give testimonials. Meetings feature two speakers each week consisting of different members providing more depth and knowledge about their specific business. Individuals are recognized for networking achievements.

Can I be a guest before I join?

We invite you to attend a BNI meeting to discover a culture and professionalism unlike any other. Please arrive early to sign in and get a name tag. Meetings start promptly at 7:00 a.m. and 7:01 is considered late so please arrive early. Most chapters have a weekly meeting due. Guests of the Partners In Growth chapter are expected to pay $12. Please be sure to bring at least 30 business cards!

How do I become a member of BNI?

The process is easy. Near the end of each meeting guests will be provided an application for membership. A Visitor Host will assist the guests in completing the application. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. You will be asked to provide contact information, license numbers, references, and other typical information for applications. We review the applications carefully and check references and licenses of prospective members. We don't allow just anyone to join BNI. We want quality, reputable, honest members.

Where does the BNI Partners In Growth chapter meet?

Meetings are held at Acapulco’s Restaurant every Wednesday from 7:00-8:30 am. It's suggested that visitors arrive early (6:45am) to network, get breakfast, hand out business cards, and get a name badge.

Acapulco's Restaurant Old Town San Diego (part of the Best Western - Hacienda Hotel)

2467 Juan Street, San Diego, CA 92110 - Located at the corner of Harney and Juan Streets, across from Heritage Park in Old Town San Diego.

Click here for Directions.

Is there a cost for the breakfast?

Cost for breakfast is $12 per week. Guests are expected to pay for their breakfast.

Who can I contact for further information?

For further information,>Visit our contact section.

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