NEW ORLEANS – BNI Louisiana is forming a new chapter in the New Orleans area. The new BNI chapter will meet weekly on Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. at Luke and Porter’s Family Restaurant, 1517 Metairie Rd. The BNI group is seeking professionals who are interested in growing their business by maximizing their marketing efforts through word-of-mouth, referral networking.
BNI is the world’s largest business and professional organization. In 2014, BNI Louisiana / Mississippi members passed more than 40,000 referrals which resulted in approximately $38.5 million in closed business reported by members.
Through BNI, members have the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals in a positive, supportive and structured environment. Only one person representing a professional specialty can join a BNI chapter.
“Now, more than ever, business people need to network to stay in business,” says Tim Paulin, Executive Director of BNI Louisiana. “BNI’s style of networking is based on the philosophy Givers Gain® — if you want to get business, you have to be willing to give business to other business people.”
BNI members participate in up to 52 networking meetings each year and receive tools to help them network effectively.
“Networking requires commitment,” says Melissa Willis, BNI Chapter Director Consultant. “Belonging to BNI is like having dozens of salespeople representing your business, and in return you are representing their businesses. BNI members are sincerely committed to helping one another grow their businesses through networking.”
