Women in Business: How To Start and Grow a Successful Networking Group
Business Networking is Important
by Sharon Michaels (Read about her here.)
(Listen to it here.)
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Over the past 20-plus years, I’ve had the pleasure of starting several business networking groups. Some of these groups have proven to be more successful than others. Through trial and error, I’ve come up with a checklist of what I believe it takes to create a successful and productive networking group.
1. Determine the purpose and primary focus of your group. Will your group be social, business building, leads-generating, educational or fund-raising? Make time to write a purpose statement that will set the tone and foundation for your new group. It’s important too that when you choose a name, it reflects your purpose and vision.
2. Determine when, where and how often your group will meet. Personally, I’ve found that consistency is the key to developing a successful networking group. It’s a good idea to meet no less than once a month for social, educational and fund-raising groups. For business-building and lead-generating groups, a good rule of thumb is at least every other week for the feeling of continuity.
The location is very important and often depends upon whether the group will be buying a meal. Covering meal expenses can make a huge difference in location and cost. It’s also best to find a central location, especially if your meeting is directly before or after work.
Decide what time of day and for how long you’ll be meeting. An hour is minimum, especially if everyone will be introducing themselves. I’ve found that most business owners are agreeable to meeting first thing in the morning or at lunchtime. Potential members who work a job during the day will generally want to attend evening meetings.
3. Determine membership fees and meeting costs. If you are renting a meeting room, then there will need to be a meeting fee. Generally, the more “niche” or specialized the networking group, the higher the fee for membership and meetings.
4. Determine how you will be conducting your meetings. Will the networking be casual or formal? During your meeting will you be spotlighting a member, or will everyone have a turn to speak? Is there a board or committee of members setting the agenda and meeting criteria? Will there be guest speakers?
Structured meetings seem to work best for business or lead-generating groups. Social groups tend to want a more casual atmosphere. At my meetings I have an agenda outlining what we will be covering, highlighting upcoming events and clearly defining our vision and purpose.
5. Determine how you are going to invite and screen your members. This may be the most important step of all. Once you’ve fine-tuned the purpose and vision for your networking group, the type of potential members you will attract should become clear.
What are the criteria for membership? A key to a successful networking group is assembling a cohesive and like-minded group of individuals who share the same values and interests. This is where leadership is so important. The values and beliefs of the leader will be reflected back by the membership. Strong, supportive and caring leadership will produce a cohesive and successful networking group.
Publicity is another important factor. How do you intend to let others know about the formation of your group?
I’m not going to say that it is easy to start and grow a successful networking group. I will say that it is well worth the time and effort. I’ve made new friends, grown my own business and watched participants blossom into successful self-confident business owners.
What do you think … is there a business networking group in your future?
Listen to today’s podcast here.
Be sure to visit our site, WomensMedia to get Expert Advice for Business Women.
On our website, WomensMedia you should read this: Table-Talking Your Way to Networking or Be Visible — Connect!
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