How to Find a Business Networking Group
Business networking groups provide great opportunities to increase referrals and network with other professionals. The type of group that you join depends on your profession and what you want to get out of the group. There are several types of groups with members from stay-at-home moms to business professionals. Do your research, and you'll find the perfect group to help you build your business.
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Instructions
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Start researching different groups either online, through your local chamber of commerce or simply by talking to other professionals.
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Decide how much time you can commit to a networking group. Some groups meet once a week and attendance is very important, but you can provide a substitute if you are unable to attend. Other groups may meet once a month.
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Ask to be a guest at a meeting before deciding to join. Some groups are by invitation only and they only accept one person from each profession. If you know someone who is in a group and is not among your profession, ask her to take you as a guest or can call the group's committee chair.
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Search for more than one group. If time allows, join two to three groups to maximize your networking ability.
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Evaluate a group's rules and regulations. Most groups have membership fees, some higher than others. In general, the groups that have higher fees also have stricter guidelines in respect to attendance and acceptance.
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Have references available. Many groups check references, and you may have an interview before being accepted.
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Tips & Warnings
Networking groups can help you learn to run your business more efficiently. You can share advice with and receive advice from other business owners.
Networking groups offer a variety of training and workshops to help you grow your business.
If you join a strong contact networking group that meets once a week, be sure to send a substitute if you can't attend.
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Comments
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02SmithA
Jan 12, 2009
Very important in this economy! 5* -
Shirley Philbrick
Jan 10, 2009
I have been asked many times to join networking groups and always decline because of time constraints. I appreciate the complete info. you have listed about how they work !
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Wasatch
Jan 07, 2009
I sell residential and commercial real estate. A good portion of my income is from networking groups. I even started a focused real estate investing group. Good article.
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mizchulita
Jan 07, 2009
I think joining a business group can make a big city feel more like a small town! Great article !
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Toni G. - a.k.a georgelarson
Jan 06, 2009
Good information and resource for Small Business owners.
