A Look at Business Network International (BNI)
Ivan Misner started Business Network International (BNI) in 1985 as a way for business people to connect with each other. The organization is based on the idea that referrals and networking with other businesses can help businesses. BNI works in more than 70 countries, and more than 250,000 people are members. Members of BNI get together regularly to network and share referrals. The group also offers training and resources for networking and growing businesses. BNI is organized into groups called "chapters," which are made up of a group of businesses from the same area. Members of a chapter come from different industries and jobs, but they all want to grow their businesses through networking and referrals.
How does BNI work?
BNI is based on referrals, and members of a chapter get together regularly to network and give each other business leads. Each chapter is made up of a group of businesses from the same area, and the businesses and professionals that make up each chapter are from different fields. But only one person from each profession can join a chapter. This helps keep members from competing with each other.
During meetings, members can give a short talk about their businesses and the kinds of referrals they are looking for. They can also give "testimonials" about other members and their businesses, which helps the group build trust and credibility.
BNI also has a strict "visitor policy" that says people can only go to a chapter meeting once unless a member invites them back. This helps make sure that the group is made up of serious business professionals who are committed to growing their businesses through networking and referrals.
BNI also gives its members training and resources, like workshops, online training, and support materials, to help them learn how to network and get referrals more effectively.
Overall, BNI is a structured and results-driven networking group that helps businesses grow by helping them build relationships with other local businesses that are based on referrals.
BNI St. Clair
Business Network International (BNI) has a group in St. Clair called BNI St. Clair, which serves the area. BNI St. Clair, like all other BNI chapters, is made up of local businesses from different fields and industries that meet regularly to network and share referrals.
As a BNI St. Clair member, you'll be able to:
- Regularly attend chapter meetings and talk about your business.
- Tell people what you think about other members and their businesses.
- Get suggestions from other members.
- Attend training and workshops to get better at networking and getting referrals.
- Access resources and help materials online
- Take part in BNI's online platform for members to refer other members.
- Be the only person in the chapter with your job.
The day and time of the chapter meeting, where it takes place, and other details may change. Contacting the BNI St. Clair chapter directly is the best way to find out how to join and take part.
BNI St. Clair County
929 Edgewood Dr O'Fallon, IL 62269
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BNIStClair