Experience the Power of Business Networking at BNI Visitors Day

What is BNI Visitors Day?

BNI, or Business Network International, is the world's largest business networking and referral marketing organization. Local BNI chapters host weekly meetings to allow members to build relationships and pass referrals to grow each other's businesses.

BNI Visitors Day is a special event hosted by local BNI chapters to give non-members a glimpse into what BNI is all about. These events are designed to educate visitors on the benefits of BNI membership and showcase the positive atmosphere and business growth opportunities that the organization provides.

Why Attend BNI Visitors Day?

Attending BNI Visitors Day allows you to experience a real BNI meeting firsthand. It's a no-pressure environment to learn how BNI works, ask questions, and meet chapter members.

Key benefits of attending BNI Visitors Day include:

• Learning about the structure of BNI meetings
• Understanding the member experience
• Seeing the positive energy and camaraderie
• Hearing success stories from members
• Asking questions to determine if BNI is right for your business
• Making connections with potential referral partners
• Gaining visibility for your business

What to Expect at a BNI Visitors Day

While each local chapter plans their own agenda, you can expect Visitors Day to follow the general flow of a typical BNI meeting.

A Visitors Day meeting will likely include:

• Welcoming and networking with members
• Learning more about the chapter's members and their businesses
• Understanding the meeting roles and responsibilities
• Education on generating referrals and success stories
• Tips on making the most of your membership
• Q&A session to address your questions
• Wrapping up with next steps and visitor follow-ups

Who Should Attend BNI Visitors Day?

BNI Visitors Day is open to any local business professionals interested in learning more about BNI. New visitors are always welcome.

Attending can benefit:

• Business owners
• Startup entrepreneurs
• Sales professionals
• Independent consultants
• Real estate agents
• Insurance representatives
• Financial service providers
• Contractors and trade professionals
• Creative service freelancers
• Wellness practitioners
• And more!

Getting the Most from Your BNI Visitors Day

To maximize your Visitors Day experience, keep these tips in mind:

Come Prepared

Do some research beforehand on the local BNI chapter hosting the event. Review their website and social media pages to get a feel for their membership.

Bring plenty of business cards and any relevant marketing materials. Rehearse your 30-second elevator pitch so you can concisely explain what you do.

Arrive Early

Give yourself extra time to park, find the meeting location, and get settled. Arriving early allows you to introduce yourself, meet members, ask questions, and learn names before the meeting starts.

Engage Authentically

BNI meetings facilitate natural networking and relationship-building. Initiate conversations, show genuine interest in learning more about each business, and look for referral opportunities.

Capture Contact Information

Collect business cards from members you connect with. Follow up after the Visitors Day by adding them on LinkedIn, sending a personal email, or scheduling a 1-on-1 meeting.

Provide Feedback

Let the leadership team know what you enjoyed about Visitors Day and if you have any suggestions for improvement. Provide your contact info so they can answer additional questions.

Visitors Day Follow Up and Next Steps

Apply for Membership

If the chapter culture and membership seem like a good fit, submit your application to join. Attending Visitors Day often waives application fees.

Complete the Member Orientation

Once approved, new members complete a BNI orientation to fully understand membership duties, benefits, and get set up to maximize their experience.

Invite Visitors from Your Network

Pay it forward by telling business associates about your positive Visitors Day experience and invite them to a future meeting.

Get Involved

Volunteer for chapter roles like Membership Committee, Treasurer, Secretary, etc. This builds leadership skills and deeper relationships.

Consistently attend meetings, give referrals, provide business education tips, and participate in chapter socials.

The more involved you are, the more value you’ll get from your membership.

Provide Member Testimonials

Share any referrals, leads, or new business you gain through the chapter. Provide video or written testimonials to promote BNI and encourage future membership.

FAQs

What is the time commitment for BNI membership?

Attending the weekly 1-2 hour chapter meetings is essential. Additionally, members should make time for 1-on-1 meetings with other members, chapter social events, and volunteering for leadership roles. Total average time commitment is 5-10 hours per month.

How much does it cost to join BNI?

Membership costs vary by region, but expect around $500-$600 to join plus annual renewal fees. Many chapters waive the one-time registration fee if you attend Visitors Day first.

What results can I expect from BNI membership?

Most members double or triple their investment within a year through referral business. But results depend on how engaged and patient you are in cultivating reciprocal relationships.

How are members held accountable in BNI?

To uphold ethics and participation, members must meet metrics like referral goals, visitor invites, and attendance. Those not meeting standards risk being removed from chapters.