In recent public and private conversations I've had with members of the Executive Committee of the Rancho Santa Margarita Management Society, as well as some of our members and visitors, I have detected some divergence in opinions about what our primary purpose(s) should be. In the interest of oversimplifying, I would suggest that there are two general camps or schools of thought as to what our primary purpose is:
- General Networking. This group's primary purpose is to get together with other business people who share our values, learn from good speakers on current business topics, meet new people, generally socialize in a business setting that is not filled with alcohol, smoking, coffee, off-color jokes, foul language, etc.
- Specific Networking. This group's primary purpose is to network to grow their business in both the short term and long term. If they are not finding new customers or people who can refer them to customers, coming to a monthly breakfast meeting is not worth the time and the $15-$20.
- Which of the two above purposes is our primary one?
- Can we hold out both purposes as equally important and remain a viable organization?
- Can we put one of the two purposes above as the primary one, but keep both purposes as priorities, and remain a viable organization?
- Should we give up one of the above purposes and focus exclusively on the other?
Bill Chapman
Orange County Attorney
2 comments:
1) I think the General is the milk. Values & ethics ties us into the BYU society and should remain but in an indirect manner. Always present, but not always the subject of the speaker or activity.
As for the Specific, I believe it is ultimately the motivator. This is what will keep those rising early on a Wednesday morning. This is the meat. This is where we can measure success. I think this is what people ultimately want. I think it's a very good thing.
2) ?
3) Yes. This can remain a viable organization. I refer to #1 above with emphasis that the business done will always be reminded to be done in a moral and ethical manner.
4) Both are needed.
Dave:
Thanks for your comment. It is very helpful to get feedback like this.
New ideas.
1-Form an "ad hoc" committee to explore ways to promote "networking" (from now on when I use the term "networking" I'm referring to "specific networking") among members of our chapter.
2-give "points" to members who refer business to another member. Points could be based on the estimated value (honor system) of the goods or services referred. Then, hold an "auction" of donated items (Angels tickets, one hour of free legal work, etc.)
3-create a color print photo directory of members with an extensive bio designed to promote networking. This could include offering a one page entry per person, allowing extensive discussion of past successes designed to promote referrals.
4-create a social networking group on services such as LinkedIn, Facebook, et cetera.
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