Inviting visitors can often cause concern and trepidation, but it’s crucial for the vitality of a networking group. Visitors are the lifeblood of a Chapter, and regular influx keeps the group dynamic and thriving. Even with 40 members, you should always strive to bring in new visitors.
Many members forget they were once invited as visitors. I owe my introduction to Richard Prosser, my UK bank manager in January 2000, who saw the potential of business networking and invited me.
Overcoming Awkwardness in Inviting
Inviting someone to a meeting can feel awkward, as it might seem like you're recruiting for a multi-level marketing scheme or a religious group. Here are some don’ts and dos to help you strike the right balance:
Don’ts:
- Don’t tell them they can join; they may not be able to. They can request to be considered for membership, but it's a privilege, not a right.
- Don’t explain what they will get from the meeting. Everyone’s experience is different.
- Don’t outline all the steps of the agenda. Let them experience it themselves.
- Don’t promise they will get loads of referrals; they might not.
- Don’t tell them they have to speak. They have the opportunity to introduce their business if they wish.
- Don’t be surprised if they don’t say yes the first time you ask them.
- Do tell them the time and place.
- Do mention that membership requires regular commitment and active participation.
- Do inform them of the cost of the first meeting.
- Do ask them to bring 50 business cards.
- Do suggest they bring something to write on.
- Do reassure them they have the right to speak but aren’t obligated to.
- Do tell them you will meet them there and arrive early yourself.
- Do call them the day before to confirm their attendance.
Passive Inviting:
- Email Signatures: Include a paragraph in your email signature about your membership and invite people to visit the group website for more information. You’ll be surprised by how many inquiries you receive.
- Posters and Leaflets: Display these in your reception area or office to spark interest and initiate conversations.
- Customer Conversations: Share the history of your company, highlighting the role of business networking in your success.
- Simple Invitations: After discussing your business networking activities, end with, "You should come to our next meeting; you may enjoy it."
- Manage Expectations: Mention the early morning start and commitment, but encourage them to try it once and see for themselves.
Set a target to invite one visitor each month. Remember the rule of thirds: you may need to invite nine people to get one to attend. While this may seem disheartening, it’s a common result of years of experience.
Final Tips
- Develop your style and methods for inviting people.
- The more people you invite, the more will come.
- Regular visitors improve the group’s quality and energy.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively invite visitors, ensuring the continued growth and vitality of your networking group.