Tour 18:- Starting Your Own Networking Group, Part 1
Is it time to start your own networking group, but you aren't sure if you should? Consider starting your own if:
You enjoy networking
People love being around you
You wish to leave toxic networking group
You observe those leading in the group you are in, and you can see yourself easily performing the same duties
Someone has asked you to start a group with them
You want to build connections with business owners in your area.
Let's unpack the list, shall we?
You Enjoy Networking
Fundamentally, you should enjoy networking before you start your own group. Attending the meetings, forming new relationships, being a leader, should push all your buttons and give you all the feels. Even if the thought of leading scares you a little, if you like to network, consider starting your own group.
People Love Being Around You
Your referral partners and business pals will start to say things like, "You're the networking queen/king," or "I see you everywhere," or even, "Hey it's so good to see you!." They come up to talk to you, you are pick up on cues that you are generally fun to be around. This is a good sign. Consider starting a group of your own.
You Wish to Leave a Toxic Networking Group
Boy Howdy, as my dad would always say. There isn't much worse than being a part of any organization that is full of infighting and disrespect. If the group you are in has disintegrated, and you dread going, AND (this is very important) you are able to clearly identify what behaviors or people are leading to the toxicity, consider not only leaving, but starting your own group.
You Observe Those Leading in the Group you are In, and You Can See Yourself Easily Performing the Same Duties
If you admire those in the leadership roles of a group you are in, or even just attend, and you say things to yourself like, "I could do that," consider "doing that." Do ponder, because this isn't a project to be taken lightly, and if you have the time, energy, and resources to start your own group, take action!
Someone Has Asked You to Start a Group With Them
If someone you respect has asked you to collaborate with him to create a networking group, be proud of yourself. This is an honor, and the invitation tells you that you are a person who can be trusted. Consider taking him up on the offer. Leading a group with someone has many advantages.
First, you have someone with whom to share the workload. Second, you have access to your partner's sphere of influence, and will grow the group quicker. Finally, you'll bounce ideas off of each other, which will lead to a better experience for those who attend.
There Isn't a Group Close to You
Mix and Mingle grew from 1 chapter to 18 in a very short amount of time, largely for this reason. Business owners, founders of non profits, and employees alike enjoyed networking at the central location so much that they asked if they could begin their own chapters closer to their homes or offices.
My recommendation, if you would like to start a networking group close to you, is to find a well established networking group farther away, and ask the organizers if they would be willing to let you start your own chapter under the same name.
If they aren't agreeable to your request, then start your own and pack some patience in your suitcase as you start your journey. Groups usually don't form overnight, however if you seek to build relationships that are mutually beneficial, and follow my tips here, the word will get out. People will begin to check out your group.
Go network my friend, and remember:
You may just be the right person to create a place where true connections and relationships begin.
The Networker's Tour Guide, Faithann Basore, and her husband Dave have owned Window Cleaning Plus (WCP) for 10 years. Growing WCP through networking has given Faithann the desire to guide other small business owners through the networking terrain so they can feel comfortable and build long lasting relationships in their business.
Got networking questions? Email me at [email protected].
