Frequently Asked Questions
- Can Anyone Become A Member?
- Is There A Quota On Referrals Passed?
- How Often Do You Meet?
- Is This A Social Event?
- Are Members Reputable?
- What If A Member Does Poor Work?
- What Occupations Benefit Most?
- Why BNI?
Can Anyone Become A Member?
Yes and no. BNI is unique because we only take one person from each profession.. So if you are an insurance sales person and we already have one, unfortunately you won't be able to join our chapter, though we can most definitely refer you to another BNI chapter in the state. If we do have an opening in our chapter and you wish to join, we do have a screening process before you become a member.
Is There A Quota On Referrals I Have To Give?
No. Many of our members started out wondering if they could come up with enough referrals to maintain their membership. Though passing and receiving referrals is one of the main reasons for joining a BNI chapter, there are a variety of ways that you can contribute to the group. We encourage visitors and members alike to find their own unique way to contribute. Contributions rom our members not only help us grow as networkers, but also allows our group to stay unique. We all bring something different to the table - and while referrals are a very important part of what we do, we all will tell you that there are many ways to get involved.
How Often Do You Meet?
We meet every Friday morning, except for major holidays and weather-related cancellations. If you want to visit our group, it is a good idea to contact us to let us know you are coming in case there is a cancellation. If the Wallingford schools are cancelled or delayed due to weather issues, that meeting will be cancelled as well.
Is This A Social Event Where I Can Get More Business?
Silver Cities BNI is made up of professional business people all looking to improve their business. Our meetings are structured and run like a sales meeting. If you want to be energized and have fun in a structured business meeting, we want to introduce you to our group. If you are looking for a casual relaxing social gathering, we may be too energetic for your needs. So, If you want more business than socializing, contact us and come visit our group.
How Do You Know New Members Are Reputable?
In order to become a member, an application must be filled out and submitted. The application form asks for references that our membership committee looks into. BNI is a word of mouth organization, so before a potential member even comes to our meeting they have to have spoken to someone or been invited by someone in the group. Everyone has to have a sponsor, or one is assigned to them, and the sponsor vouches for the visitor/ potential member.
What If A Member Gets A Referral And Does Poor Work?
Ethical and professional dilemmas are reported and handled by the membership committee. Though it is not often that we have a problem, should one arise, we encourage members to speak up so that we do our due dilligence.
What Occupations Benefit The Most From Networking?
It's not about the occupation, it's about the individual.
If you're focused, hardworking and professional, we want you in our chapter.
There Are Other Networking Groups Out There. Why Yours?
Silver Cities BNI is quickly becoming recognized as one of the strongest chapters of BNI in the state. We take our networking seriously (in a fun environment) as this is our means to grow our own businesses (and don't be fooled... we are in it for the money!). If you are willing to jump in and learn, our experienced networkers will teach you how to become a strong business networker. Would you rather belong to a networking group or a networking group that networks? If you really want to start networking, contact us.