Networking Blues - You Are the New Kid on the Block

As a professional business person, you have joined a networking group or association to build your rapport in the business community, advance in your professional development and build relationships for business and personal success. As a new member, there are many advantages that you can grab hold of and use to benefit your club membership.

Listed below are simple tips that any professional in any industry can use to make the most of their club, association or group membership!

Clean Slate

As a new member, you have a fresh start. You are coming in with new ideas, new perspectives and new ways to develop business and social relationships. The best part is that you have a lot of attention from the organization and the existing members. New members are usually announced at club or organization functions. They are also published in the directories, newsletters or listings which are sent to members, sponsors, partners etc. Being in the lime light can create a positive form of visibility and awareness about yourself, your company, your products, your brand and your valuable contribution to the organization or group. This is also an excellent way for members to reach out to you and offer their assistance and friendship in a sincere and generous manner.

Club Ambassador

Your new membership status can be a great opportunity for you to join committees, sub-groups or be a representative of the club and organization. The informational training or development that you receive from the group will definitely enhance your professional development. It will also give you an opportunity to meet members on a more personal yet professional level. Spending time with members, talking about initiatives and objectives for the club or organization are all brilliant ways of building relationships, referring business, making sales, getting leads and developing new business ventures.

Membership Perks

Being a new member has several added benefits such as discounts on memberships to other clubs and associations that are partners, sponsors or supporters. New members can expect to get discounts on several products and services including restaurants, entertainment, retail/shopping etc. And depending on the rules and regulations of the club or association, if you recruit new members you can receive additional perks, discounts, savings etc. The membership also allows you to offer bonus services, incentives and perks to your new business counterparts and colleagues. As a professional you can take advantage of your new member status by inviting guest, colleagues, clients, friends and family to events hosted by the club or association.

Chi Chi Okezie is owner/producer of SIMPLEnetworking, LLC in Metro-Atlanta, GA. Newly published author of "SIMPLEnetworking: Creating Opportunities ... The new form of success!" View excerpts of the book and polish your professional approach: http://www.snseminars.com

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