While the primary purpose of joining Professional Referral Exchange (PRE) is to receive qualified business referrals, it’s important to remember that your success depends largely on how you present yourself and your business to others. Networking is about building trust and demonstrating your value in a way that inspires confidence. Be proactive in creating opportunities for referrals by educating your fellow members and consistently representing your business in a professional, approachable manner. The more effort you put into helping others understand what you offer, the more likely they are to connect you with the right opportunities.
Be Specific About Your Business Needs
Clarity is key when it comes to generating referrals. During meetings and conversations, provide simple, concrete examples of how your product or service solves problems or meets client needs. Instead of saying, “I can work with anyone,” describe an ideal client scenario or a recent success story. This specificity helps your fellow members recognize referral opportunities when they arise, making it easier for them to recommend you confidently.
Use Materials to Support Your Message
Equipping your chapter members with brochures, flyers, or handouts can make a big difference in how effectively they refer you. These materials serve as tangible reminders of your expertise and help your fellow members articulate your value to others. A well-designed brochure or business card can clarify your services, showcase your professionalism, and ensure your information is readily available when a referral opportunity arises.
Act Quickly on Referrals You Receive
When you receive a referral, treat it as the valuable opportunity it is. Promptly follow up with the lead to provide excellent service and keep the referring member informed about the progress. This demonstrates reliability and professionalism, fostering trust among your chapter peers. It also encourages a culture of accountability, ensuring that referrals are handled with care and enthusiasm, which keeps the flow of business strong.
Adopt a “Givers Gain” Mindset
The principle of “givers gain” is at the heart of effective networking. By giving referrals generously and without expecting immediate returns, you cultivate goodwill and reciprocity within your chapter. Networking thrives on mutual support, and when you focus on helping others succeed, they will naturally look for opportunities to help you in return. Remember, success in PRE is a shared effort — when one member thrives, the entire chapter benefits.
Be Consistent with Attendance
Regular attendance is essential for staying top-of-mind with your fellow members. Each meeting is an opportunity to reinforce your presence and remind others of your business and expertise. If you’re scheduled to speak or present, make it a priority to attend the following meeting as well. This continuity helps build your credibility and ensures you don’t miss valuable opportunities to connect with members or guests.
Maximize Opportunities Before and After Meetings
Arriving early and staying late can make a big impact on your networking success. Use the time before meetings to greet fellow members, introduce yourself to guests, and engage in meaningful conversations. After meetings, follow up with members about potential collaborations or referrals. These informal interactions are often where the strongest connections and opportunities are made, so take advantage of this valuable time.
Build Relationships Outside the Meeting Room
Networking doesn’t stop when the meeting ends. Strengthen your relationships by scheduling one-on-ones with fellow members, making occasional phone calls to check in, or meeting for lunch to learn more about their businesses. These efforts not only deepen your connections but also provide insight into how you can better refer business to each other. Aim to connect with every chapter member at least once a year to keep relationships fresh and collaborative.
Get Involved in Leadership Roles
Serving as an officer or committee chair within your chapter can greatly increase your visibility and influence. Leadership roles allow you to build stronger relationships with members and demonstrate your commitment to the group’s success. They also provide opportunities to shape the chapter’s culture and operations, ensuring it continues to thrive as a source of referrals and professional growth.
Make the Most of Your Presentations
Your speaker time is one of the most valuable tools for educating your fellow members about your business. Use this time to provide specific examples of the types of clients you work with and the problems you solve. Share success stories and offer practical tips on how members can identify ideal referral opportunities for you. A well-prepared, engaging presentation leaves a lasting impression and increases the likelihood of receiving quality referrals.
Be Patient and Persistent
Networking is a long-term investment. Building trust and strong referral relationships takes time, often months or even years of consistent effort. Stay patient and focused on fostering genuine connections, and the rewards will come. Remember, PRE is about mutual success — the more you contribute to the group, the more the group will support you in return.
In Summary
The success of your PRE chapter depends on the collective efforts of its members. By presenting yourself effectively, building meaningful relationships, and actively contributing to the group, you create a foundation for mutual success. When guests and potential members see the energy and professionalism of the chapter, they’ll be eager to join and contribute to its growth. Networking is a team effort, and together, your chapter can achieve great results.