So What is BNI, Anyway?

BNI stands for Business Networking International and is the referral organization that pioneered networking. The concept of BNI is still based on the simple idea of "Giver's Gain". Simply put, Giver's Gain refers to the idea that what goes around comes around. If someone goes out of their way to bring you business, most likely you're going to feel compelled to repay the favor. The more you give business to other members of your chapter, the more business you will get in return. The "Giver's Gain" philosophy is unique only to BNI.

What is also unique about BNI is the way it is structured. Every chapter has one member per profession. By limiting membership to one member per profession BNI has eliminated unfriendly competition and provided an environment that promotes long lasting business relationships. People do business with people they know, like and trust. In BNI you really get to know your fellow members on a personal level and develop the trust and mutual respect that leads to long, prosperous, business relationships. Another positive element of the BNI structure is the frequency of meetings and stringent attendance policy.

Each chapter meets on a weekly basis and attendance is mandatory. We want people who want to be there and help their fellow members get more business. An empty chair cannot generate business. It is vitally important for every member to attend every meeting to educate other members about their business and pass qualified referrals. Good business owners meet with their sales team at least once a week. The same is true in BNI. Your fellow members are your sales team and it's your job to let your team know exactly what type of referral you are looking for.

Once you join a chapter and become involved you'll soon realize that BNI is networking at it's finest. Last year,
in the Westgate Chapter alone, our members generated hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of business!