Networking groups: why massage therapists join them
Many successful massage therapists say that joining a business networking group, especially in the beginning years of their business, made all the difference in their success. Here's what two of our customers said about their experiences with networking groups.
: "Three months after I opened my business, I ended up joining the Leads Group. I found myself surrounded with people who were building their businesses and could help me build mine."
"I visited some chapter meetings [of a business networking group], and joined because the value was obvious. As uncomfortable as it was for me personally, I knew it would pay off as far as my business was concerned, and I kept at it."
What is a networking group?
Business networking groups, sometimes called leads groups, are organizations of professionals who meet on a regular basis to exchange the names of potential contacts and build alliances. Members have the opportunity to present themselves and what they do to the other members.
How do you find networking groups?
Search the internet for groups in your area, and ask your friends and colleagues for referrals. You may have to try more than one group to find one that you like. Some groups have no formal membership, while more formal groups usually allow you to attend at least once to get a feel for the group before committing.
Here is an introduction to some networking groups. For more information, check out their websites, and contact them with your questions.
- BNI.com. The members of Business Networking International exchange ideas and contacts for both client and professional referrals. The website makes it easy for you to find a chapter in your area. Attendance is required, which may be why some people find it so successful. The largest of these kinds of groups, BNI is expensive to join, 300 dollars plus a year.
- Biznik.com. Biznik is set up for business people to meet informally both online and in person to discuss ideas and help each other succeed. Events sponsored by different members are constantly being announced on the website. Membership ranges from free to 24 dollars a month, depending on the depth of the online profile you choose.
- Itakethelead.com. I Take
The Lead is an organization that creates groups of professionals who
meet on a weekly basis to exchange potential professional and client
contacts and build business alliances. There is only one person in each
group from each profession. Membership is $25/month.
- OneLeadsGroup.com. One
Leads Group is similar to I Take the Lead. The groups meet twice monthly.
Call 208-442-7777 for fee rates and more information.
- Local groups. Look for home-grown groups in your town or city. Our
community has one called "Connections
for Women" that meets once a month for networking and professional
support. The cost is $10 per meeting.
Why join?
You may be wondering why you should make the effort to seek out a networking group. Here are some benefits to consider:
- Networking groups are a ready-made method of ongoing word of mouth marketing.
- Members of the group get to know you personally, and can help you build your reputation as a knowledgeable and trustworthy professional in your community.
- Networking groups are devoted to working together to build all participating businesses.
- A business networking group is at least partially a support group. Not only do you have a chance to present your business to the membership, but you can also listen to the stories of others and learn from them.
In fact, you may be most successful if you go into a networking group with curiosity about what other people do and how they got there. While marketing strategies like newspaper ads, brochures and web content tend to be aimed at reaching a wide audience, making professional relationships is all about forging a deeper connection with individuals. Observe the group, express interest in others, and take your time getting to know people and going further into detail about what you do. That said, always have your business cards on hand, of course, and possibly your brochure or flyer.
It's normal to feel awkward about attending in the beginning. Keep in mind that the people who participate are in the same boat as you, and will welcome your attendance. Everyone in business needs to reach out in order to become known in their communities. Business networking groups give you the opportunity to present what you do and learn more about running a successful business in a supportive environment.
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