It seems the trend today in Business Networking is leaning towards premium memberships. I agree with the adage, you get what you pay for and in most cases where there is no charge to attend a gathering of business people you usually get what you pay for as far as business connections are concerned.
This is not to say that premium member networking clubs offer much better results. However, with all the changes in today’s business network more premium networking groups are catching on. I encourage it as long as there is a unique learning experience or opportunities to connect with someone special. If that is the case then the cost of the membership is justifiable.
Knowing how business networking groups are organized I can attest to the the work and time it takes to put on a monthly gathering. The calamities of poorly run networking groups usually is the result of the organizer of the activity being overwhelmed with things to do between their fulltime jobs. Premium networking groups has someone focused on the details. Premium clubs also usually have an enforcer who keeps the membership purged of those who just don’t get it or are better fit to the 1980’s style business networking.
Many will say that paying for the opportunity to network business will kill off Business Networking. My studies are finding that more decision makers are more apt to join a premium membership business networking group that has controls with who can be a member than joining a business networking group that is open. There is a catch to that finding..the costs of the membership has to cover a learning experience or some other clear business expense other than passing business cards. Plus, the creature comforts of the meetings need to be to the standards of the level of business person that is catered to. C Suite executives are not interested in corner booth breakfasts at Denny’s.
Business Networking could benefit with a well organized business networking opportunity. Look for more of the premium groups to pop up…just make sure to pick a Good one. Let me know how I can help
