1 Grow PCBN PCBN Pacific Coast Business Networking August 12, 2015

Outline Review the elements of a successful networking group Conduct a situation analysis Identify your mission and goals Gain visibility and promote PCBN Follow the best networking practices

What Makes a Networking Group Successful? The essential elements of a successful networking group: Purpose — How will attendees benefit from attending meetings and making new contacts? Is there a "passion" that will encourage participation? People — What common interest or need holds your community together? Promotion — How do you reach out to new people in the area who share an interest in the networking group's purpose for meeting?

Do a Situation Analysis Who is the Competition for networking events?

Do a Situation Analysis What are reasons for competitors success?

Do a Situation Analysis What are competitors’ distinctive values?

Do a Situation Analysis What are competitors’ recruiting strategies?

Situation Analysis What is PCBN’s distinctive value?

Situation Analysis Why do the present members stay?

Situation Analysis What are the reasons for turnover / defections?

Obstacles for Members Joining / Leaving Lack of money Lack of time Lack of leads Personality conflicts

Situation Analysis What are your recruiting strategies?

Situation Analysis What are the goals for PCBN – size, variety, etc ?

Mission and Purpose What is the purpose of PCBN?

Mission and Purpose How will people benefit by attending your networking events?

Mission and Purpose How will people grow their business through PCBN?

Promoting PCBN's Meetings What are the best ways to gain visibility?

Best Networking Practices 1.- Present yourself well 2.- Don’t bombard – interact 3.- Exploit all opportunities 4.- Define the group – why it is different 5.- Be selective and diligent in attracting members 6.- Help others 7.- Develop professionally and personally