Frequently asked questions
If there is a question which is not answered below, please contact the chapter director.
Has it generated business for other members?
What happens if I can’t make it?
What if I don’t think I can bring a referral every week?
I don’t like public speaking, is this appropriate for me?
Networking is an American concept. Does it work in the UK?
Are the meetings held during breakfast every week, or other social events?
Will there be other people from my profession in the group?
Has it generated business for other members?
Yes. Many of our members have been with us for several years because of the business they generate through BNI.
What happens if I can’t make it?
We have a network which enables you to contact substitutes to ensure your message is always heard at meetings, and you have a small ‘emergencies’ allowance for non-attendance.
What if I don’t think I can bring a referral every week?
Referrals are only part of the BNI’s success, one-to-one meetings with other chapter members, bringing visitors and testimonials for work done by other chapter members are valued just as highly.
Will I get training?
Yes, BNI run a series of training seminars and monthly workshops, so your skills can be developed. You’ll make even more new contacts too!
I don’t like public speaking, is this appropriate for me?
Most new members wonder about their ability to speak in front of a group, but you will find that BNI Islington has a friendly, supportive, atmosphere where your confidence will grow rapidly.
Networking is an American concept. Does it work in the UK?
Yes! There are over 500 chapters in the UK. In 2006 they generated 551,248 referrals worth over £185m for their members.
How do I network?
Networking is word-of-mouth marketing; telling people what your business does, listening to what they do and, perhaps, recommending a colleague. BNI extends this powerfully, because your fellow chapter members carry your business cards with them and will actively promote your business.
Are the meetings held during breakfast every week, or other social events?
Besides the weekly breakfast meetings, and the training workshops you can attend, there are frequent regional and national networking and training events every year. See BNI Europe for dates.
Will there be other people from my profession in the group?
No. Every chapter can only have one representative from any trade or profession, so you will be unique within the group. Chapters often form Power Circles of members with complementary interests to increase their impact in the market place.
