Can you handle more business?

The Acorn chapter of BNI is always looking for quality local business people to whom we can pass business opportunities. However, to ensure that every member gets maximum benefit, we only allow one person per profession or trade to join.

We suggest you read the rest of this page first but, if you are interested in BNI Acorn, please check the ‘Categories Wanted’ list on the right for your profession or trade.

 

But my type of business isn’t on the list

If your profession isn’t listed, this will be for one of two reasons. BNI Acorn already has a member offering your products or services. Or we’ve simply forgotten to include your profession, or category. Whichever the case, do still contact us for an invitation to our next meeting, or click on the button below. Even if your category is filled, we can refer you to another local chapter if you believe than BNI is right for you.

 

What happens at BNI Acorn?

We meet every Wednesday at Trent Park Golf Club, near Oakwood station. See our Contact Acorn page for directions.

After an informal networking session, we follow a fixed agenda over a light lunch, in which every member participated and business referrals are made. The formal part of our meeting starts at 12pm and finishes at 1.30pm.

Attending BNI meetings was worth an average of £23,000 to each member over the last year. And we have the paperwork to back that up! BNI members also have access to free professional training and a series of business growth publications which equip them with invaluable development and marketing skills.

 

What happens when I visit BNI Acorn?

We recommend that anyone interested in BNI visits us to see what we’re all about. We’re a friendly bunch and you’ll be made very welcome. As a visitor, you’ll have the chance to network with our members and other visitors so do bring plenty of business cards. During the formal part of our meeting, you’ll have the opportunity to briefly promote your business, as long as your category is not already taken within the chapter.

After the meeting, the BNI application procedure will be explained to you. If you wish, you can apply for membership there and then.

There’s no pressure to join. Indeed, we do not accept every membership application as we want to ensure that we have the right people within our chapter. You are free to ask as many questions as you like, and to go away and think about whether BNI Acorn is right for you. If you decide not to apply, that’s fine with us. We know that BNI isn’t for everyone.

Please note that there is a nominal charge to cover the lunch provided during the meeting.

 

What’s expected of me as a member?

This will be fully explained to you while we’re talking you through the application procedure. BNI is a commitment and it’s important that you’re aware of this before you join.

We also have a code of ethics which every member undertakes to observe. This code is printed on the application form but, for your convenience, we’ve reproduced it here.

 

BNI’s Networking Code of Ethics

1. I will provide the quality of services at the prices I have quoted.
2. I will be truthful with the members and their referrals.
3. I will build goodwill and trust among members and their referrals.
4. I will take responsibility for following up on the referrals I receive.
5. I will live up to the ethical standards of my profession (please see note below).
6. I will display a positive and supportive attitude with BNI Members.

Note: Professional standards outlined in a formal code of ethics supersede the above standards.

 

How do I get to visit BNI Acorn?

To get an invitation to our next meeting, simply contact any BNI Member or click the button below to request an invitation to our next meeting. We look forward to meeting you.