Ask Felicia: Networking Groups

Q: Dear Felicia -

Have you heard of BNI networking? I have been invited to join. What are your thoughts?

~ New Therapist

A: Dear NT -

When you are trying to get your practice off the ground, it is important to meet as many new people as possible and to share what you do with them. Networking groups can be a great way to do this. Go to the initial meeting and introduce yourself to everyone you can. Have a strong, confident 60-second "elevator speech" to easily explain what you do. Wear branded clothes if you have them and have materials available (digital or business cards, flyers, etc.) to hand out. Invite people to try you out with a new client or gift certificate offer. Be calm, confident, and open to opportunities.

If, after the first meeting, you feel the group is a good fit, then certainly consider joining. Before paying and signing on the dotted line, I would visit as many other networking groups as possible to make sure this is "the one."  Each group has different rules, fees, and meeting times. In some groups, like BNI, you must generally attend weekly and refer business to others regularly.  Others may be more informal, less expensive, and even free. Regardless of the style, in my experience, networking groups work best when you attend regularly, not when you just go once or twice. By getting to know people and developing relationships, over time, they can drive a lot of business your way.

Remember to make good eye contact and to ask others about their businesses and goals as much as you talk about your own. Be thinking about the ways you can help them and their clients through what you do and who you know. By assisting others in meeting their goals, you will build rapport and a more genuine connection than if you just try to build your business. 

Next Steps

Book a private coaching session for personalized strategies that move you from stuck to unstoppable. Reserve your spot now and make your next move with confidence.

Check out my digital guides to dive deeper into growing your business.

Take one of my online courses on your own time and grow your business and mindset!