What is BNI?
BNI stands for Business Network Int'l. The sole purpose of BNI is to increase your business through a structured system of giving referrals. The philosophy of "Givers Gain" is evident in the number of referrals passed each week.
Our local business community benefits greatly from the structured organization of this professional networking model established in 1985 in San Dimas, California. There are 3050 BNI Chapters in 16 countries with over 60,000 members. In 2003 members passed approximately 2.8 million referrals generating over $1.2 billion dollars in business for members.

What are the benefits of joining the Muskegon Business Network?
As a Muskegon Business Network BNI member you receive many benefits:

• Receive a BNI orientation audiotape/CD entitled the "Formula for Success."
• Receive a personalized BNI name badge and carry all your chapter members' cards in your BNI business card holder for easy reference.
• Get referrals and participate in 50 networking meetings per year.
• Place a link from our chapter website to your organization's web site (at no additional charge).
• Go to local chapter socials, such as parties, picnics and holiday receptions.

Can anyone join?
We only take one person from each profession. So, for example, if you are a residential real estate professional and we already have one, we can refer you to another BNI chapter, or we may help you open another chapter.

How is a BNI meeting structured?
The sole purpose of BNI is to increase your business through a structured system of giving referrals. One person per profession can be a member of a chapter. Our meetings are held weekly on Thursday from 7:00 - 8:30 a.m. at Parmenter-O'Toole Law Firm. A leadership team is in place to keep the meeting on-track and on-time. An education topic is covered each week. Members give a 60-second commercial incorporating a memory hook. Members actively pass referrals or give testimonials. Meetings feature two member speakers each week. Individuals are recognized for networking achievements.

Can I be a guest before I join?
We invite you to attend a Muskegon Business Network BNI meeting. You may visit as a guest at any chapter twice before being required to join in order to continue. Meetings are held at Parmenter O'Toole Law Firm every Thursday from 7:00-8:30 a.m. Arrive early at 6:45 a.m. to network before the meeting start time.

How do I become a member of Muskegon Business Network?
We carefully check references of new members and are confident referring our members to family, friends, peers, clients and associates. The process is easy. At each meeting members use a 3-part carbonless form to refer business to one another. The chapter retains a copy. Both the referring member and the business provider have copies for follow-up and tracking.

Where does the chapter meet?
Meetings are held at The Parmenter O'Toole Law Firm every Thursday from 7:00-8:30 a.m. Arrive early at 6:45 a.m. to network before the meeting start time.
Directions:

Who can I contact for further information?
For further information, visit our Members section or visit the BNI - National or BNI - Regional websites.