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Joining a Business Networking International (BNI) chapter represents a significant step for professionals eager to expand their networks and enhance their business growth through structured referrals. The BNI application form is designed to facilitate this process for new members, including those seeking a transfer or a change in category. It captures essential information about applicants, such as their names, business details, and the specific category they wish to join. Furthermore, applicants are required to provide a brief description of their product or service to ensure clarity regarding their business’s focus. The form outlines the associated fees, which include a total of $689.30 covering annual membership, registration, and applicable taxes. Understanding the membership policies is crucial; they dictate attendance expectations, commitment to referrals, and the fact that only one member per profession can hold a position in each chapter. The application process includes a screening by the Membership Committee, ensuring that all potential members align with BNI's core values and standards. Once approved, members must participate in orientation within 60 days and adhere to BNI's ethical guidelines. All of these components are designed to support a productive and interconnected membership, fostering an environment where each member can thrive.

Bni Application Example

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

TO BE COMPLETED BY NEW MEMBERS, TRANSFERS AND CATEGORY CHANGES

© Copyright 2003-2010 BNI All Rights Reserved www.bnigtaplus.ca / www.bniceo.ca Tel: 1.866.871.1823 / 416.652.9098

PART 1 (PLEASE PRINT AND ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS)

INDUCTION DATE:____________CHAPTER NAME:____________________

APPLICANT’S NAME:____________________________________________

BUSINESS NAME:_______________________________________________

BUSINESS ADDRESS: ___________________________________________

CITY:______________________PROV:_______POSTAL CODE:__________

DESCRIBE YOUR PRODUCT OR SERVICE (BE SPECIFIC):________________

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

CATEGORY APPLIED FOR:_______________________________________

BUS. PHONE:____________________CELL PH:___________________

FAX:___________________ EMAIL:____________________________

WEBSITE:__________________________________________________

MEMBER SUBSCRIPTION FEES:

ANNUAL……………………………………….$

480.00

REGISTRATION…………………………….. $130.00

TAXES…(Applicable to Provincial/Federal Law)…… $

79.30

TOTAL DUE…………………………………..$

689.30

Chapter Meal Services Are Charged By The Chapter And Are Separate From BNI Marketing System Fees SPONSOR’S NAME::_________________________ APPLICANT INITIALS:

Send Top Small Copy To BNI Regional Office

TYPE OF PAYMENT:

PERSONAL CHEQUE COMPANY CHEQUE CASH

 

(payable to BNI)

CREDIT CARD MC VISA AMEX

CARD NUMBER:_______________________________EXPIRY:____/____

SIGNATURE: ___________________________________________

CARD HOLDER NAME (PRINT):___________________________________

 

 

 

UPON YOUR ACCEPTANCE TO BNI, FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE WITHOUT EXCEPTION

BNI Applicant: Tear Off Here And Please Read

GENERAL POLICIES

1.Only one person from each professional discipline, trade or business is permitted to join a BNI chapter. Membership Committees of each chapter have final authority relating to classification conflicts.

2.Members must represent their primary occupation, not a part-time business.

3.The weekly meetings last for 90-minutes. Members need to arrive on time and stay for the entire meeting.

4.An individual may be a member of only one BNI chapter at any given time.

5.Attendance is critical to the group. If a member cannot attend, he/she may send a substitute (not a member of his/her chapter) to the meeting. This will not count as an absence. A member is allowed three absences every six months (April through September and October through March). After three absences, the member is subject to removal by the chapter’s Leadership Team or Membership Committee.

6.Members are required to bring bona-fide referrals and/or visitors to their BNI chapter. Chapters may establish a minimum number of referrals and/or visitors that is acceptable to maintain membership.

7.Visitors may attend chapter meetings up to two times.

8.Speakers must bring a door prize. Only members bringing a visitor or a referral are eligible for the door prize.

9.There are no leaves of absence except for medical leaves. Members may take up to eight weeks medical leave with the Membership Committee’s prior approval if their fees are pre-paid for that period of time and they attempt to have someone fill in during their leave.

10.It is the members’ responsibility to file a concern with the Membership Committee of their chapter if a visitor in any way conflicts with their classification. This should be done before the visitor is approved for member ship. If there are no complaints, the Membership Committee will “assume” their consent.

11.Members who wish to change their classification must submit a new membership application and get approval from the chapter’s Membership Committee for the classification change.

12.Transferring members must submit a new membership application to the Membership Committee of the chapter to which they are transferring for approval. If approved for transfer, all fees are transferable.

13.In case of problems with a member, Membership Committees may, at their sole discretion, put a member on probation relating to the member’s business practices or commitment to the chapter.

14.Memberships may be revoked for failure to comply with the policies and/or code of ethics of BNI. Membership Committees of any chapter may revoke memberships. In the absence of a Membership Committee, the Leadership Executive Team may fulfill that responsibility.

15.Policies are subject to change. The Leadership Team will be notified regarding all changes.

16.If the Leadership Executive Team members fulfill all responsibilities throughout their term, then they will receive compensation for their fees. A Leadership Executive Team member must agree to the terms outlined in the Leadership Executive Team Agreement in order to hold a position and must go through training before participating.

17.In the absence of a Membership Committee, the Leadership Executive Team may act as an ad hoc Membership Committee until one is established.

18.An individual member cannot belong to a second chapter of BNI nor, any other group that allows only one person per profession and whose primary purpose is to pass referrals to one another, because it substantially reduces their commitment to the chapter members. Membership Committees have full authority in this area.

19.All new members will attend BNI’s Member Success Orientation Program (MSP) in their region within the first 60 days of joining. Only after attending MSP training with the BNI Director, may the new member be added to the "speaker rotation" for that chapter. Failure to attend MSP may result in being dropped from the chapter by the membership committee.

20.All BNI membership lists are for the purpose of ‘giving’ referrals and not for soliciting (i.e., e-mail, direct mail, etc.) members without their prior approval.

BNI is a marketing service provided by BNI Franchise Corporation, and its franchises. BNI or any of its franchises reserves the right to discontinue a member’s participation in this program.

Arbitration: All disputes arising out of or in connection to this Agreement or the member's participation in BNI shall be arbitrated and finally resolved by binding arbitration in accordance with the National Arbitration Rules of Procedure of the ADR Institute of Canada, Inc. The Arbitration will take place in the City and Province in which the member’s BNI Chapter is located. This clause encompasses any and all disputes involving BNI, its franchisee, and their officers, directors, agents and representatives.

Limitations on Liability: Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, any liability to you involving BNI, its franchisee, and their officers, directors, agents and representatives for any cause whatsoever arising out of or related to this Agreement and/or your membership or participation in BNI, and regardless of the form of the action, will at all times be limited to the amount of yearly dues paid by you for the membership in BNI. Except in jurisdictions where such provisions are restricted, in no event will there be any liability to you or any third person for any indirect, consequential, exemplary, incidental, special or punitive damages.

UPON YOUR ACCEPTANCE TO BNI, FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE WITHOUT EXCEPTION

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

TO BE COMPLETED BY NEW MEMBERS, TRANSFERS AND CATEGORY CHANGES

© Copyright 2003-2010 BNI All Rights Reserved www.bnigtaplus.ca / www.bniceo.ca Tel: 1-866.871.1823 / 416.652.9098

PART 1 (PLEASE PRINT AND ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS)

BUS. PHONE:____________________CELL PH:___________________

INDUCTION DATE:____________CHAPTER NAME:___________________

FAX:___________________ EMAIL:____________________________

APPLICANT’S NAME:____________________________________________

WEBSITE:__________________________________________________

 

BUSINESS NAME:_______________________________________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BUSINESS ADDRESS: ___________________________________________

 

 

MEMBER SUBSCRIPTION FEES:

 

 

CITY:______________________PROV:_______POSTAL CODE:__________

 

ANNUAL……………………………………….$

480.00

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DESCRIBE YOUR PRODUCT OR SERVICE (BE SPECIFIC):________________

 

REGISTRATION…………………………….. $130.00

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

_______________________________________________________

 

TAXES…(Applicable to Provincial/Federal Law)…… $

79.30

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

_______________________________________________________

 

TOTAL DUE…………………………………..$

689.30

 

 

 

Chapter Meal Services Are Charged By The Chapter And Are Separate From BNI Marketing System Fees

 

 

CATEGORY APPLIED

 

 

 

SPONSOR’S NAME::_________________________ APPLICANT INITIALS:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Send Top Small Copy To

BNI Regional Office

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TYPE OF PAYMENT:

PERSONAL CHEQUE COMPANY CHEQUE CASH

FOR:_______________________________________

 

 

 

 

(payable to BNI)

CREDIT CARD MC VISA AMEX

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURE: ___________________________________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

UPON YOUR ACCEPTANCE TO BNI, FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE WITHOUT EXCEPTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PART II (Please Read Carefully)

APPLICATION PROCESS

 

 

 

1.A prospective member may attend up to two meetings as a visitor. Prospective members complete this application and submit it with payment to the Membership Committee for review.

2.The Membership Committee completes the screening process and notifies the prospective member of acceptance or non-acceptance before the next meeting.

3.The Membership Committee notifies the President.

4.The President introduces the new member at the chapter meeting following acceptance by the Membership Committee.

PART III (Please Answer all Questions) (You may also attach a Resume to this application.)

1.Describe your experience in your field/occupation (be specific):_________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

2.Describe your educational background in your field/occupation. Include degrees, licenses or credentials required to perform your job:

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

PART IV

1. Is the occupation under which you are applying for membership, a full or part-time occupation?……... Full time Part time

2.How long have you been with the company you are representing today?__________________________________________________________________

3.Are you willing and able to commit to arriving at the meeting on time (7AM/12PM) and staying throughout the full 90-minute meeting?….. YES NO

4.Are you willing and able to comply with BNI’s policies and procedures?…………………………………………………………………………… YES NO

5.Will you find and use a substitute person to attend a BNI meeting on your behalf when you are not able to attend? ……………………….. YES NO

6.What do you expect to contribute to the Chapter? ___________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

7.What is your ability to bring qualified referrals, introductions or visitors to the chapter?_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

8. Do you belong to other networking organizations? YES NO If YES, please list the organizations:_________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

9.All members are expected to contribute to the Chapter’s management. What Leadership Team position interests you the most?

President

Vice President

Secretary/Treasurer

Membership Committee

Visitor Host

Event Coordinator

Education Coordinator Mentor

UPON YOUR ACCEPTANCE TO BNI, FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE WITHOUT EXCEPTION

BNI’s Code of Ethics

©Copyright 1985-2010

Upon acceptance to BNI, I agree to abide by the following Code of Ethics during the tenure of my participation in the or- ganization.

1.I will provide the quality of services at the prices that I have quoted.

2.I will be truthful with the members and their referrals.

3.I will build goodwill and trust among the members and their referrals.

4.I will take responsibility for following up on the referrals I receive.

5.I will display a positive and supportive attitude with BNI members.

6.I will live up to the ethical standards of my profession. Note: Professional standards outlined in a formal code of ethics supercede the above standards.

I know that on-going training is a key to success in business and therefore I agree to participate in BNI’s new member orientation sessions within my first 8-weeks of participation.

BNI Canada and its franchisees, reserve the right to discontinue, merge, or restructure a Chapter or Chapters in any city or commu- nity. Members in such Chapters will, in accordance with BNI Admin- istrative Policy #5, be issued a Certificate of Credit to eligible mem- bers.

BNI Canada Privacy Standards

©Copyright 2005-2010

By applying for membership in a Canadian BNI chapter you agree that BNI may collect and use identifiable information about you (your personal information) for the purpose of:

a)Assessing your application for initial membership

b)Assessing your status as a member in good standing

c)Assisting you to obtain more word of mouth referrals and

d)Sending you periodic information about your member- ship status and word-of-mouth referral marketing.

BNI will disclose your personal information to potential clients/ customers through the BNI marketing process which, may in- clude posting your business contact information on the BNI website.

Further, you agree to obtain the appropriate form of consent from those individuals that you may refer to BNI members as potential clients/customers. Your Chapter Mentors, Education Coordinator, Leadership Team and BNI Directors/Ambassadors will outline the appropriate form of consent.

BNI must rely on all its’ members to adhere to the overall BNI Privacy Policy and standards formulated by BNI International and BNI Canada. For more details of BNI’s Privacy Policy, you may refer to the Privacy Statement posted at www.bnicanada.ca, or apply directly to privacy@bnicanada.ca.

 

Applicant Signature:____________________________________ Date:________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

PART V

BUSINESS REFERENCES

NAME:_________________________________________________________POSITION:_______________________________________

BUSINESS NAME:________________________________________________PHONE:__________________FAX:___________________

BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP (describe):_______________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

NAME:_________________________________________________________POSITION:_______________________________________

BUSINESS NAME:________________________________________________PHONE:__________________FAX:___________________

BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP (describe):_______________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

UPON YOUR ACCEPTANCE TO BNI, FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE WITHOUT EXCEPTION

PART V1MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE USE ONLY

MEMBER:_______________________________________Verified Information and References: Yes No

Induction Date:___________________

COMMENTS:___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

RECOMMENDATIONS TO PRESIDENT

ACCEPT DECLINE Category Assigned By Membership Committee:_____-

________________________________________________________

COMMENTS:__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If declined, was there a conflict with another member’s category? Explain:______________________________________________________________

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Fact Description
Induction Requirements New applicants must complete the membership application and submit it to the Membership Committee for acceptance.
Membership Fees The total membership fees amount to $689.30, which includes an annual fee of $480.00, a registration fee of $130.00, and taxes of $79.30.
Attendance Policy Members are required to attend weekly meetings and may have up to three absences every six months. Substitutes are allowed.
Membership Limitations Only one person from each professional discipline may join a chapter, ensuring exclusivity in representation.
Refund Policy All fees are non-refundable upon acceptance to BNI, which is stipulated clearly in the application form.

Guidelines on Utilizing Bni Application

Completing the BNI Application form is an important step in the membership process. After submitting your application, the Membership Committee will review it, and you'll receive notification regarding your acceptance. Follow these steps carefully to ensure all required information is accurately provided.

  1. Begin by printing the form clearly. Use black or blue ink to ensure legibility.
  2. In the section for Induction Date, fill in the date you're applying.
  3. Enter the Chapter Name where you wish to join, noting it accurately.
  4. In the Applicant’s Name field, write your full name.
  5. Provide your Business Name as registered.
  6. Complete the Business Address information, including city, province, and postal code.
  7. Clearly describe your product or service. Be specific and detailed.
  8. Select the Category you are applying for and fill in the relevant sections, including your Business Phone and Cell Phone.
  9. Include your Fax number and Email address, ensuring both are current.
  10. Provide your website URL if applicable.
  11. Calculate your fees. List the membership subscription fees and total due, confirming they add up correctly.
  12. Fill in the Sponsor’s Name to indicate who is sponsoring your application.
  13. Initial where indicated to acknowledge receipt of the small copy to send to the BNI regional office.
  14. Choose your type of payment from the options given. Enter your card number and expiration date if using a credit card.
  15. Sign the form, confirming that you understand the fees are non-refundable upon acceptance.
  16. For additional information, answer all questions in Part III regarding your experience and background.
  17. Complete Part IV, indicating whether your occupation is full-time or part-time, and answer all other questions appropriately.
  18. In Part V, provide the required business references with accurate contact information.
  19. Finally, sign the application verifying the accuracy of the information provided.

What You Should Know About This Form

1. What is the purpose of the BNI application form?

The BNI application form is designed for new members, transfers, and individuals changing their membership category. It collects essential information, including personal details and business specifics, to facilitate the membership review process by the Membership Committee.

2. What are the fees associated with BNI membership?

The total fees for BNI membership consist of several components. The annual membership fee is $480. Additionally, there is a registration fee of $130 and taxes applicable to provincial or federal law of $79.30. Consequently, the total amount due for membership is $689.30. It is important to note that these fees are non-refundable upon acceptance into the BNI organization.

3. How long does the membership process take?

The membership process begins when a prospective member attends up to two meetings as a visitor. After submitting the application form along with the payment, the Membership Committee screens the application and informs the person of their acceptance or non-acceptance prior to the next meeting. Following acceptance, the President introduces the new member at the succeeding chapter meeting.

4. What attendance requirements must members adhere to?

Members are expected to attend meetings regularly to maintain their membership. Each meeting lasts 90 minutes. If a member cannot attend, they may send a substitute who is not a member of their chapter. Members are permitted three absences within a six-month period, after which they may be subject to removal by the chapter's Leadership Team or Membership Committee.

5. Can a member hold positions in multiple BNI chapters or similar organizations?

No, an individual may not belong to more than one BNI chapter at a time, nor can they participate in other networking organizations that allow only one person per profession. This policy is in place to ensure that each member remains fully committed to their chapter.

6. What commitments are required from members regarding contributions to the chapter?

Members are expected to contribute actively by bringing bona fide referrals and/or visitors to meetings. Chapters may establish specific quotas for these contributions. Additionally, all members are encouraged to engage in the chapter’s management and indicated interest in leadership roles through the application.

7. Are there any circumstances under which a member can take a leave of absence?

Leaves of absence are generally not permitted, with the exception of medical leaves. Members may take up to eight weeks of medical leave with prior approval from the Membership Committee, provided their fees are pre-paid for that duration and arrangements are made to fill their role during their absence.

8. What is the significance of the BNI Code of Ethics?

Upon acceptance, all members agree to abide by the BNI Code of Ethics, which outlines standards relating to service quality, truthfulness, goodwill, and responsibility in following up on referrals. This code is essential for fostering trust among members and ensuring a positive environment within the organization.

9. What happens if there is a conflict in membership classification?

If an individual believes that a visitor presents a conflict with their classification, they must promptly file a concern with the chapter's Membership Committee. The committee will review the situation, and if a conflict is found, appropriate actions will be taken to resolve it before the visitor is approved for membership.

Common mistakes

Filling out the BNI application form can be a straightforward process, yet many applicants make common mistakes that can delay their membership approval or even lead to rejection. Being aware of these errors will help you submit a complete and accurate application.

One common mistake is providing incomplete information. Many applicants neglect to fill in all the required fields, often leaving out critical details such as their business address or type of payment. Make sure you take your time and carefully check that every part of the application is filled out. Nothing is more frustrating than submitting an application only to find out it was incomplete.

Another frequent error involves improperly labeling business information. Some applicants might put their personal addresses instead of their business addresses, which can cause confusion during the review process. It’s essential to clearly indicate your business name and address to ensure the Membership Committee can easily confirm your details.

People also tend to rush through the section that describes their product or service. This area is essential for the Membership Committee to understand what you bring to the chapter. Being vague can hinder your application. It’s better to be specific about your offerings to help them better appreciate your role within the group.

Additionally, applicants might overlook the importance of the ‘Sponsor’s Name’ section. If you have a sponsor, leaving this blank or failing to list them accurately can impact your application. Having a sponsor essentially lends you credibility, so ensuring this information is correct can be beneficial.

Moreover, choosing the wrong category applied for is another mistake. Some applicants may not fully understand the category classifications, resulting in incorrect submissions. Always review the categories and select the one that accurately reflects your primary occupation.

Timing can also be an issue. Failing to meet the application deadlines or correctly noting the induction date can delay your membership. Make sure you are not only aware of important dates but also that you adhere to them.

Using outdated payment information is another pitfall. Some applicants assume their payment method is still valid without double-checking. Invalid credit cards or expired checks can result in rejection. Always verify your payment details before submission.

People sometimes forget to sign the application or miss including their initials where required. These small oversights can significantly delay the processing of your application. Take the time to review your application and make sure every section has been properly signed or initialized as needed.

Lastly, several individuals inadvertently list other networking organizations they belong to without realizing the implications. Being involved in competing organizations can impact their application. Be mindful and consider the policies regarding memberships before disclosing this information.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a smoother application process and set a strong foundation for your membership in BNI. Remember, taking care to fill out the application thoughtfully will reflect your commitment to the organization and its principles.

Documents used along the form

When submitting the BNI Application Form, several additional documents may be required or recommended. These documents help facilitate the membership process and ensure a complete application. Below is a list of commonly associated forms and documents.

  • Resume: A detailed document summarizing the applicant's professional experience, education, and skills. This can help the Membership Committee gauge the applicant's qualifications.
  • Letter of Recommendation: A letter from a current BNI member or a professional acquaintance vouching for the applicant's character and business acumen. This lends credibility to the application.
  • Payment Form: A form detailing the method of payment for membership fees. This is crucial for processing the application without delays.
  • BNI Code of Ethics Agreement: A document confirming that the applicant agrees to uphold the principles and standards set by BNI. This promotes ethical conduct among members.
  • Business References: Contact information and relationships of individuals able to provide insights into the applicant's professional background. This aids the Membership Committee in verifying claims made in the application.
  • Membership Committee Review Form: A form used by the Membership Committee to record their findings and decisions regarding the applicant's eligibility. This ensures transparency and consistency in the evaluation process.

Including these documents with the BNI Application Form can enhance the chances of acceptance and provide a comprehensive view of the applicant's qualifications and intentions.

Similar forms

  • Job Application Form: Similar to the BNI application, a job application form collects personal information, employment history, and qualifications from candidates. Both documents aim to evaluate an individual’s suitability for membership or employment.

  • Membership Registration Form: Used for various organizations, this form also requires information such as name, contact details, and type of membership. Like the BNI form, it often includes payment details and expresses agreement to policies.

  • Loan Application Form: This form contains detailed financial information and personal identifiers, resembling the BNI's need for specific information about one's business and role in the chapter. Both forms require signatures to confirm the applicant's intent.

  • Vendor Application Form: Vendors must fill out this form to provide services to a business. It shares similarities with the BNI application by asking for business descriptions and contact information, along with terms of service agreement.

  • Insurance Application Form: Just like the BNI form, an insurance application collects relevant personal and business information to determine eligibility and coverage. Both forms usually require a declaration of understanding regarding policies.

  • Event Registration Form: This form gathers participant details for events, similar to how the BNI form captures information from prospective members. Both serve the purpose of organizing participation and may involve fees.

  • Non-Profit Membership Form: When joining non-profit organizations, individuals complete forms that resemble the BNI application, including details about their professional background and reasons for joining.

  • Academic Application Form: Students apply to academic programs using detailed forms that require personal, educational, and professional information, similar to the comprehensive nature of the BNI application.

  • Certification Application Form: Those applying for professional certifications must submit information about their qualifications and experience. The structure is akin to the BNI form, ensuring all necessary details for assessment are provided.

  • Partnership Agreement Application: When forming a partnership, individuals often submit applications detailing their business and contributions. This mirrors the BNI application in both intent and the collection of critical partnership-related information.

Dos and Don'ts

Things to Do When Filling Out the BNI Application Form:

  • Ensure that all sections are completed fully and accurately.
  • Print clearly to avoid any confusion regarding your information.
  • Double-check your payment method; ensure it is acceptable and includes necessary details.
  • Provide a detailed description of your product or service to give a clear picture of your business.
  • Be mindful of your membership category; select the one that accurately reflects your primary occupation.
  • Review the application thoroughly before submission to prevent any errors.

Things Not to Do When Filling Out the BNI Application Form:

  • Do not leave any questions unanswered; ensure every section is filled out.
  • Avoid using abbreviations or jargon that may confuse the review committee.
  • Do not provide misleading information about your business or professional status.
  • Refrain from submitting multiple applications for different categories at once.
  • Do not forget to sign your application; an unsigned form may delay your membership.
  • Never ignore the deadline for submitting your application; timely submission is essential.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the BNI application form can lead to confusion among prospective members. Here are four common misunderstandings and clarifications:

  • Misconception 1: Anyone can apply for membership at any time.
  • While interested individuals can attend up to two meetings as visitors, they must submit an application during that time. The Membership Committee reviews each application before acceptance into the chapter, ensuring that candidates align with BNI's goals and policies.

  • Misconception 2: Membership fees are refundable.
  • Once accepted, applicants should be aware that membership fees are non-refundable without exception. It is crucial to consider this commitment before finalizing the application process.

  • Misconception 3: Members have unlimited flexibility in attendance.
  • Attendance is vital for BNI members. Each member is allowed only three absences within a six-month period. After that, they risk removal from the chapter. Members must commit to punctuality and full participation in meetings.

  • Misconception 4: Membership allows joining multiple BNI chapters.
  • Individuals can only be members of one BNI chapter at a time. This policy is in place to foster stronger relationships and commitment within the chapter, minimizing competition over referrals.

Key takeaways

Filling out the BNI application form requires careful attention to detail. Here are key takeaways to guide prospective members:

  • Complete All Sections: Ensure every section of the form is filled out accurately. Missing information can delay the application process.
  • Be Specific About Your Business: Clearly describe your product or service. This helps the Membership Committee assess your fit.
  • Know the Fees: The total cost for annual membership is $689.30, which includes registration and taxes.
  • Payment Method: Check the appropriate box indicating how you plan to pay. Options include personal or company checks, cash, or credit cards.
  • Attendance Commitment: Members must commit to attending weekly meetings. Arriving on time and staying for the entire session is crucial.
  • Referral Policy: Bring bona fide referrals and/or visitors to meetings. Chapters may set minimum requirements for these contributions.
  • Substitute Attendance: If you cannot attend, find a substitute who is not a chapter member. This absence will not count against you.
  • Code of Ethics: Members must adhere to BNI's Code of Ethics. This includes providing quality services and following up on referrals.
  • Leadership Involvement: Think about what leadership position interests you. Members are expected to contribute to chapter management.
  • Privacy Awareness: Understand that your personal information will be collected and used for BNI's membership processes and marketing.

By adhering to these guidelines, prospective members can create a strong application and set themselves up for success in the BNI network.