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Are Networking Groups Worth It?

Is it worth forking out your marketing £££ on business networking fees and seeing the same bunch of people every couple of weeks?

Well, the answer is…it depends.

people shaking hands at a business networking group

Why do people bother joining networking groups?

The primary reason is that they want to get more business and earn more money.

Many people also like the idea of being able to help other people, gain useful knowledge as well as giving and receiving support and friendship in their local community.

Being part of a group can definitely offer an abundance of benefits.

BUT, if your idea of business networking is just popping in to chat to some people, handing out your business cards and ‘selling your wares’, then don’t bother. There are plenty of free or pay as you go events around. Joining a group will bear you no fruit at all.

Networking is not about ‘selling’ it’s about building sustainable relationships.

However, if you ARE prepared to get properly involved in the success of the group, you will find that networking is one of the most cost effective ways to grow your business.

So, it’s definitely worth investing some time, energy and money into the right group.

two women talking to each other at a Growth Community meeting

The right group can be worth its weight in gold

Becoming part of a group, where you build relationships with people who share your values, can be really successful. The right group needs to consist of people who are growth minded though – not just for themselves, but for others too.

You might think that you are limiting yourself seeing the same people month in month out. However, if you are just on the hunt for new shiny objects all of the time you aren’t doing enough to establish a proactive relationship with someone who wants to learn how you help people and go find you some more. And don’t forget you’ll still be expanding your connections through the guests at the meeting too.

And it’s not ALL about referrals either.

A group like this will support you when times are tough. They’ll celebrate with you when you get new business, they’ll open doors into new places, they’ll share knowledge with you that you can apply practically to your business. They will even share their reliable suppliers with you. And when you’ve built a credible relationship , they’ll bring you quality new leads and referrals too.  

How will I know if it’s worth it?

Remember that business networking is a marketing activity so measure the results the same way you do with all of your other channels. Go along with a purpose. Communicate what you need help with and support others to be successful too. You’ll soon see that your time, money and energy are worth it when people start to reciprocate.

But remember that the return is not 100% financial. The knowledge, advice and support also has enormous value – and it takes a few months before you see any proper action.

There’s no need to rush into anything though…

When deciding to commit to a group it’s definitely worth taking your time over it and choosing the right one. Sometimes you just ‘know’ straight away that you’ve found your tribe, others you might need to get to know people better before you take the plunge. A good group, that cares about its dynamics, will be supportive of allowing you space to make the decision.

So, are business networking groups worth it?

Absolutely yes! When you find the right one for you.

Take your time, find your tribe and you’ll never look back.

Just remember that relationships (like Rome) are not built in a day and it’s important to enjoy the journey and not be too hung up on the final destination.

Thinking about committing to a networking group?

Then come along and experience a Growth Community meeting (or two). In fact, we invite our guests to visit us up to SIX times a year if they want to. There’s absolutely no pressure to join us. You can simply look forward to a relaxed – but very purposeful – meeting and some positive conversations with growth minded people.

But if you are ready to take the plunge you’ll find our membership opportunity flexible and affordable and our members often comment on what great value for money it is. So if you’re curious head over to our Becoming a Member page and see how it all works.

Picture of Nicky Thomas
Nicky Thomas is a business connector, relationship marketing specialist and Founder of The Growth Community. Networking is her happy place and she loves nothing more than to see people connect and and open up new opportunities for each other.

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Business Networking Locations - People meeting to talk business

Ready to join us for a meeting?

You’re just a click away from some productive new conversations. See you there!