Are Your Memberships Measuring Up?

In my workshops, I always stress how important it is to join professional associations and networking groups.  They add both structure and frequency to networking efforts that can sometimes be haphazard and inconsistent.  But it’s also important to measure the results you get from your membership.  Are you meeting the right kinds of people who are bringing you the right kinds of leads?  Are you closing business?

Just paying the membership fee is not enough to get you results.  Networking doesn’t happen by osmosis.  You need to actively participate in events and do so in the right way.  And it won’t happen overnight.  For example, two years after I joined one organization, I signed a deal for a major speaking engagement from a lead I received from someone I met at an event. 

Part of getting a big return on your networking investment is investing in the networking groups and activities that make sense for your business.  It took me a while to figure out how to position myself within this organization, what to say, and which events provide the best forum.  Now that I have the formula figured out, the next step is to see if the message carries through at future events.  I’ll keep you posted!

© 2005, Liz Lynch
Liz Lynch is founder and executive director of the Center for Networking Excellence which develops products and programs to help professionals learn how to build profitable relationships. If you're ready to start networking smarter, get your free networking tips now at www.NetworkingExcellence.com .