I was curious to find out what others felt about weekly networking groups, like LeTip, or BNI, etc. At times I feel that I should start my own group, since ones I have gone to are either non-productive, or un-organized.
Do you have tips or suggestions you can share about either starting my own networking group, or what other National groups are available? What has been your best experiences in networking events in your area?
Thanks for all your comments and suggestions.
Gabriel.
I started a private group on ActiveRain of local agents and brokers to whom I can refer buyers.
I expanded my referral resources dramatically as a result. Networking is great and networking on ActiveRain is even better.
A well run BNI group is worth the weekly time spent. One may take a bit to get up and running (Took me 9 months to go from starter a chapter to becoming fully chartered). We now have 18 professionals from such firms as Long & Foster, Edward Jones, State Farm, Aflac, Melaleuca as well as numerous smaller businesses. We are passing approx 50 qualified referrals on a monthly basis. Once we get to 25 members, goal for end of August, we will be passing 100 qualified referrals on a monthly basis.
I too have been frustrated with meeting groups being a waste of time. I think the key is to find a group that is well organized and has a host individual who takes responsibility for smooth operation. If you start your own group make sure you focus on running it first and providing for your attendees than you trying to be a participant and get a high learning value out of it. If you're networking then start and manage the group, you can have on on ones with your attendees later. Just make sure you are doing what every other group you've been a part of failed to do and you'll have a good group.
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