What To Expect

To help you get the most out of your first BNI meeting, here are some things to know before you go:

• Be Prepared:
  Visit a chapter prepared to talk about your business. Members are interested in getting to know how connections with visitors can be mutually beneficial. Also, don't forget to bring your business cards.
• Meetings:
  As a visitor, you can attend a chapter meeting twice. Remember to use this time to get know the chapter personality, and its members, not to promote your business. Meetings are high energy and run according to a structured agenda. They last around 90 minutes with time for additional networking before and after each meeting. Arrive around 15 minutes early so you don't miss out on any opportunities for networking, and be sure to sign in as a visitor.
• You're the Expert:
  Only one person from each professional specialty is allowed to join a chapter of BNI, eliminating the possibility of competition among our members. When you join a chapter, you are the sole representative of your field and can develop relationships with others in the chapter as their go-to person for your services.
• Respect Your Craft:
  The businesses our members represent are their full-time occupations, ensuring they are able to position themselves as resources and experts in their field.