Have you ever invited someone to visit your group’s meetings, only to hear them say, “No thanks, that’s not for me”? It’s a common response, often rooted in a fear of high-pressure recruitment. For many, being invited to a leads group can feel like walking into a sales pitch or a multi-level marketing event. To overcome this hesitation, it’s essential to shift the focus away from recruitment and toward creating meaningful connections.
Here are two simple, low-pressure techniques to invite professionals to your group, with an emphasis on helping the person you’re talking to.
“I Have Someone I Want You to Meet…”
One of the most effective ways to invite someone to your group is to apply the same principle that makes you a successful networker: focus on introductions and referrals, not selling. Instead of framing the invitation as a meeting to join a networking group, position it as an opportunity for them to meet valuable connections.
For example, if you meet a local electrician and know that your group includes a Realtor and a General Contractor, avoid saying, “I’d like you to visit my referral group.” Instead, say, “I know a couple of great tradespeople I’d love to introduce you to. They could be excellent connections to help you generate more referral business.” Then, ask if they’re available to join your group’s next gathering for an introduction.
By presenting the invitation as an opportunity to connect with others who can help them professionally, you remove any sense of pressure and focus on what truly matters: building relationships.
“We Need Someone We Can Refer…”
Another inviting technique involves highlighting your group’s need for their expertise. Tell them, “Our referral networking group is looking for someone in your profession to refer clients to. Would you be interested in coming to a meeting to how we can help each other grow?” This approach underscores the value they can bring to the group while offering tangible benefits to their business.
Remember, the key to inviting someone is to make the conversation about their success. Demonstrate how your group can provide connections and opportunities, not just obligations.
Tips for Successful Inviting and Recruiting
Develop a Strategic Approach
Build Core Groups: Focus on filling key professional categories that strengthen your chapter.
Dedicate 10 Minutes Daily: Commit a few minutes each day to outreach and follow-ups for chapter growth.
Leverage Existing Resources: Use personal contacts, Chamber of Commerce rosters, and local advertising sources like Clipper Magazine, or Valpak. Businesses currently advertising are often open to exploring new customer acquisition methods.
Tailor Your Outreach
Use multiple communication methods: phone calls, emails, direct mail, and in-person conversations. Different approaches work for different prospects.
Always leave a business card, flyer, or link to the group’s website. A tangible takeaway reinforces your message.
Start with warm leads. Personal relationships are the foundation of success in PRE and most businesses.
Avoid Overselling
Keep the initial conversation simple. Focus on getting a commitment to attend a meeting rather than overwhelming them with information or a hard sell.
Position the meeting as an opportunity to meet incredible business professionals who are actively looking to help each other succeed.
Prepare and Follow Up
Before the Meeting: Confirm your guest’s attendance and notify your Membership Chair and President. Inform other members so they can engage warmly with the guest.
Prepare Your Guest: Ensure they bring business cards and have a 60-second introduction ready. A confident guest reflects positively on you.
After the Meeting: Follow up with the guest promptly. The Membership Chair should have excellent communication skills and an enthusiasm for converting guests into members. That being said, you should follow up with your guest, too!
Engage Your Chapter
Top chapters ensure guests feel welcome by having multiple members reach out before and after the meeting. A simple, “I’m looking forward to meeting you” goes a long way in making a positive impression.
With these strategies, your invitations will feel natural and focused on the benefits of connection, making guests eager to join your chapter.