The answer to why I decided to start my own business networking group is easy. I saw a need for a networking group that was affordable, friendly and offered an educational element, such as expert speakers each month. I knew that my target market was either people who were thinking about starting a small business , or people who had already started a small business and wanted to enter the world of networking in a safe environment. I also knew that my networking group would work well because not only did I know what I was doing and knew what I was offering I was not doing this to make money, I was doing it because I wanted to help people. I already own a successful business, Motivational Steps and I wanted to give back and help others as I had been helped many times in the past.
I looked at what had worked for me in my early years of networking and what I had not liked. Then I did some market research to see if my ideas were feasible. It's ok wanting to help people, as long as that help is needed, so I established it was and moved forward with my plans. Building the foundations for any business is essential, not knowing what you want, where you are going and why can mean failure before you even start. As a business development coach my clients trust me to point them in the right direction. They know that with my experience I can be trusted to work with them and not work for them. That's important, if we do the work for you then how will you feel when we cut you loose? My clients are all intelligent people, they know what they want to do, they would not thank me for doing the work for them, they want to be given the tools to work independently. Consultants, coaches, whatever you like to call us all have our own ideas an ways to help our clients.
The Small Business Community Network Group is now 4 years old and we have a well established name in the community. Our website offers members a directory where their information can be viewed. Members also have the chance to advertise their events, products or services on the home way if they so wish. Members can email each other through the mailing list and also have a chance to write their own blog. Meetings are held once a month, normally Thursday evenings from 7pm to 9pm. Registration is followed by announcements, members and guests introduce themselves and our speaker(s) offer their presentation. In the past we have had the Brand Marketing Director from Research in Motion (RIM), a representative from TD Canada Trust from the Small Business Department, and Jim Clemmer a Leadership Expert and Author is coming to our next meeting, to name a few of the wonderful speakers. We offer refreshments and a prize draw and informal networking after the presentation. Check out the website www.sbcncanada.org and if you want any additional information please feel free to email me, Linda@motivationalsteps.com and I will be happy to answer your questions.
- Log in to post comments