Business owners are faced with decisions every day that impact their future. Choosing how to spend your marketing dollars is as important as ever and may be the difference between success and failure. It is estimated only 48% of businesses who make it to 10 years! With that in mind, we thought it may be helpful to share what we think is important when researching networking groups. When armed with the right questions, most will have the data they need to make a good decision for their business. Here are 10 critical questions and thoughts to ask or think about before joining a networking group, ensuring you fully understand the commitments and expectations:
Financial Commitments
- What is the application fee?
- What are the annual membership dues?
- Are there fees for hospitality or where the group meets?
- Are there requirements to buy a meal each meeting?
- Are there any other fees I need to be aware of?
- Be cautious of attempts to have you prepay for 2 years as the group often has significant shifts and may no longer be meeting your needs.
Time Commitments
- How much time is required for obligatory meetings whether weekly or monthly?
- Ensure the time commitment aligns with my schedule and priorities.
- How frequently do I need to schedule one-to-one meetings with other members?
- What other commitments of time are required and how often?
Referral and Participation Expectations
- Is there a minimum number of referrals I must give to remain in good standing?
- How often am I required to invite guests or potential new members?
- What percent of the group renewed in the last 12 months?
- What guarantees do I have this will work if I do my part?
- Am I allowed to join other industry exclusive networking groups to build your referral network? If no, why not?
At Network In Action, our monthly meetings save you over 80 hours annually, giving you ample time for you to utilize networking in other groups. There are no hidden fees or meal charges ever! You are never required to recruit members and can count on most of the group renewing year after year, giving you ample time to “Build Relationships That Last a Lifetime!” Leaders that have years to build on their experience not months and unique value-added agendas every month. Imagine a networking group that is so busy helping you grow your business there is zero time for unnecessary elevator pitches! That is why so many have chosen Network In Action for over the last 10 years!
