Organised groups will add structure to your networking, and make it easier to find that new business.
By joining one or two groups you can meet new people on a regular basis.
Look for groups with a broad cross-section of people and businesses for your new networking colleagues, not just people from a similar background as yourself.
Look at local branches of your national association.
You will always be able to network with like-minded people, but don’t forget they are not necessarily your target market, but you may well be able to form strategic alliances.
Your local Chamber of Commerce can be a good starting point. See how much it costs to join, but go to a few of their events first.
Many Chambers are very proactive in the small business arena. However, many do seem to be still stuck in the Dark Ages.
Like all groups, the quality varies tremendously. Many Chambers are very forward looking and will want to help you. (But some aren’t and won’t.) Try and go to a few of their meetings before you commit to join.
Look at your local or regional business newspaper.
Many networking groups will advertise or promote their contact details and events, or there may be a general listing of local groups.
Ask your clients, which groups they belong to. Groups that they join could have other members of your target market.
See if you can volunteer your services for a charity or a cause that you can support.
You will meet people who have the same outlook as yourself from all walks of life. They may be able to introduce you to members of their ‘network’.
Always look beyond the immediate group members; it’s their contacts that you want to find out about.
You may not be able to do any business with members of the group, but they may know your ideal client, or someone you want to be in touch with.
Never join more than three groups.
If you commit to too many groups it is almost impossible to make the best use of your time and membership.
It is much better to become involved with a few groups, where you are an active participant, than someone who just turns up now and again.
Being a ‘ghost’ member irritates the other members… if they don’t know when you are going to turn up… how can they trust you to turn up on appointments?
Every group is different so be clear what you want out of the group.
Know the types of people you want to network with, which industries they represent and their job responsibilities.
Always, try out a few group meetings before committing yourself.
See if you are comfortable with the people you are going to be networking with.
All groups are different; it depends on the makeup of the members – find the people who you feel you can spend some time with.
You don’t want to be going to a weekly / monthly meeting with people you don’t get along with, do you? As you won’t want to do business with them.
More thoughts and ideas in Networking Groups #2.