| Q: | How are your meetings run? What can I expect at my first meeting as a visitor?
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| A: | BNI meetings are very structured but very friendly. We typically have 15 minutes of open networking at the beginning of the meeting. Then, we have a few announcements followed by our 60-second presentations by each member. During this time, each member takes a turn giving the rest of the group a few words on what his/her business does and what referrals he/she is asking for. Following that, visitors are allowed to do their own 60-second presentations. Then, we have a 10-minute showcase by one of our members. Finally, we have the referral session where we go around the room and each person submit referrals, thank yous (closed business), or testimonials about other members. After final announcements and the close of the meeeting, there is time for more open networking. It's a very friendly atmosphere and as a visitor, you will be welcomed with a smile and we will do everything we can to make you feel comfortable.
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| Q: | What should I bring to your meetings?
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| A: | Bring plenty of business cards! You will be offer the chance to pass out your business cards so be sure to bring enough for everyone (about 30 cards). Additionally, be prepared to tell us about your business and what you do, as well.
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| Q: | How many times can I attend as a visitor?
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| A: | You can attend our meeting twice as a visitor. After that you must join our chapter in order to continue attending.
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| Q: | Will I be competing with other members for business?
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| A: | No! One of the great things about BNI is that only one person from each profession is allowed in each chapter. This means that once you join, you lock out your competition and you become the sole provider of your particular product or service in our chapter.
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| Q: | How much business can I expect by joining your chapter?
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| A: | It varies with each person but the general rule is: you tend to receive as much as you give (or more)! It is a "giver's gain" philosophy in BNI. We are encouraged to look for ways to help our fellow members and that generally leads to stronger referrals for everyone.
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| Q: | How do I join?
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| A: | Come to a meeting! After seeing what we're all about, we will give you an application packet which contains everything you need to join. Upon receiving your application, we will schedule an interview for you with our membership committee to ensure that it's a good fit.
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