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The Origin of BNI's Code of Ethics and Policies

The BNI Code of Ethics and all BNI Policies have been approved by the International Board of Advisors. They are all members from around the world who meet to discuss issues that deal with the concerns of members. BNI's policies dealing with the standards expected from our members were created by members, for members.

BNI members are expected to learn and abide by these policies. Directors, Ambassadors, Leadership Teams, and Membership Committees are entrusted with the enforcement of these policies.

BNI’s NETWORKING CODE OF ETHICS:

When evaluating members in response to complaints or concerns by other members, the membership committee should apply the following Code of Ethics to the situation. This is not meant to be a list of specifics, but can be applied in principle to almost any issue.

Upon acceptance to BNI, all members must agree to abide by the following Code of Ethics during the tenure of my participation in the organization:

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 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, supersede the above standards. (This means that a member belonging to a profession that has a more stringent standard must adhere to that standard. An example of this is the state bar association standards for attorneys licensed to practice law in that state. It should be noted that no professional standards outlined in a formal code of ethics may lower BNI ethical standards, or avoid compliance with BNI policies.)