I belong to several networking groups. Different groups with essentially different people (otherwise, what’s the point?). Networking groups come in many styles, shapes, points of views, operations; okay each group is different.
Group 1 may work for a friend, but not you, while group 2 is more your style. Group 1 is all about just giving unqualified leads; in other words it’s a numbers game to stay a member. Group 2 is about quality over quantity; qualifying the lead and making a real introduction.
Of course there is Group 3 to Group “N” that has some twist, some improvement, some something that will make it different; from the type of businesses that belong, its focus B2C or B2B or even the time of day it meets.
Regardless of which one suits you best just because you belong doesn’t mean that you will get new business. You really have to work the Networking group you belong too. You need to meet the members; develop work relationships; establish trust and then make sure they fully understand your business model, mission, services and products.
So how long does this take? Sometimes you walk in, and because you were recommended to the group by another member and you happen to offer a product or service that is currently in need; presto you have a lead. Most often it can take months.
Anything good in this life takes time to cultivate. We unfortunately don’t get immediate satisfaction and Networking is no different.
I’ve been thorough many groups and haven’t found the ideal group (and maybe it doesn’t exist) but I’ve found some very good groups. And it is taking time, but the qualified leads are beginning to come.
As are my leads to others. Don’t think a group is a one-way street. While person X may have a lead for you, it is okay that you may not be able to reciprocate. But you should give a lead to another member of the group. Takers, as they are called, are identified early and end up with very little.
Try networking, you’ll never know how helpful it can be in so many unrelated ways.