Search Our Website

Learn more about Lorena Picardo, the Home Health Care for our Reading, PA chapter of Professional Referral Exchange. We provide non-medical in home health care for seniors and adults who need assistance to safely remain at home. Member Since 2026 Lorena Picardo Home Health Care We provide non-medical in home health care for seniors and adults who need assistance to safely remain at home. Phone 610-451-1305 Email lpicardo@phhcares.com Business Name & Address Premium Health Home Health Care 2312 Fairmont Ave Suite 404, Reading, PA 19605, USA Website Visit Site → www.phhcares.com Back to Chapter Page > Back to All Chapters >

Submit a Referral Reading This referral form should be filled out after you have already made your introduction and/or used a PRE member. Your Name Referral Given to Is this a 1st or 2nd Generation Referral? * 1st Generation (Myself or someone in my home is using the service) 2nd Generation (Contact information already provided to member) n/a Meeting Guest What is this referral for? How many referrals are you submitting? Only fill out the following for 2nd Generation, Guest, or Cross Chapter Referral: If cross chapter, what member is receiving this referral? Referral's Name Referral's Email Referral's Phone Would you like to receive an email notification? Enter up to 5 email addresses to receive a copy of your answers. Email 1 Email 2 Email 3 Email 4 Email 5 Submit An error occurred. Try again later Your content has been submitted

Join professionals, business owners, and sales people in Reading for weekly networking at Professional Referral Exchange. We are committed to helping each other's businesses grow! Reading A Networking Group That Works! Discover the benefits of networking with Professional Referral Exchange in Reading, Pennslyvania. Our chapter connects local professionals to create meaningful relationships, create business opportunities, and enhance personal growth. To learn more about this chapter and discover how Professional Referral Exchange can help grow your business, reach out to our Area Director, Bill Higbee. Members 33 Est. 2002 Area Director Bill Higbee b.higbee@prenetworking.net Time and Location Our chapter meets every Thursday from 7:45am - 9:00am at B2 Bistro, 701 Reading Avenue, Reading, PA 19611. Our chapter always meets in person. Officers President Jay Gonzalez, Jr. Secretary Chris Hall Program Corey Gilmer Hospitality Bill Higbee Vice President Jessica Ott Treasurer Evan Markwood Social Beth Zullinger Publicity Buddy Holmes Membership Bill Higbee Sgt-At-Arms Bill Moss Mentor Bill Higbee Inclement Weather Policy We follow the snow cancellation policy of Wyomissing School District. If there is a two hour delay or cancellation, we do not meet. Our Members Al Robezzoli Internet Marketing Learn More Bill Moss Chiropractor Learn More Buddy Holmes Multimedia Services Learn More Corey Gilmer General Contractor Learn More Eric Glass Accounting Learn More Jerry Buffa Realtor - Residential Learn More Lorena Picardo Home Health Care Learn More Patrick Hassler Hair Salon Learn More Zach Devlin Pest Control Learn More Andrew Jensen IT Support Services Learn More Bladimir Mercedes Business Lender Learn More Cashmere Banks Fitness Center Learn More David Ross Insurance - P & C Learn More Evan Markwood Insurance - Indiv. Health Learn More Jessica Ott Flooring Sales Learn More Luis Vanderhorst Virtual Assistant Services Learn More Rantz Martin Water Purification Learn More Beth Zullinger Wellness Center Learn More Brandi Barlet Printer Learn More Chris Diaz Auto Detailing Learn More Deb Martzall Painting Contractor Learn More Iris Crespo Mortgage Lending - Residential Learn More Jim Bucciaglia Security Systems Learn More Millie Lockhart Banker - Retail Learn More Sam Kensinger Roofing Contractor Learn More Bill Higbee Legal Services Learn More Bryan Guzman Commercial Cleaning Service Learn More Chris Hall Commercial Trash Hauler Learn More Diane Salks Gift Store Learn More Jay Gonzalez Jr. Financial Planner Learn More Keith Harnish HVAC Contractor Learn More Nichole Darosh Counseling - Personal Learn More Sharon Levan Skin Care & Cosmetics Learn More Back to Chapters >

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.

We’re thrilled to announce that a new Professional Referral Exchange chapter is forming in Hobe Sound-Stuart, Florida! This is your chance to join a growing network of local professionals dedicated to building meaningful connections and fostering success. The chapter will meet every Tuesday from 7:45 AM to 9:00 AM at Berry Fresh Cafe, located at 1429 SE Federal Highway, Stuart, FL 34994. This welcoming location is the perfect spot to enjoy great conversations and build your network while having your morning coffee and breakfast! Whether you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or professional looking to connect with like-minded individuals in the area, this is an excellent opportunity to grow your business and support your community. Join us! This group is led by local connector and Area Director Mike Meyers, who brings energy, experience, and a strong network to the table. To learn more about joining this dynamic group, contact Mike directly at 772-626-2131. We can’t wait to see you there and welcome you to the PRE Networking family! Don’t miss your chance to be part of something exciting in the Hobe Sound-Stuart area.

For many business professionals, referrals are the lifeblood of consistent growth. While advertising and digital marketing certainly have their place, the power of a personal connection (specifically someone willing to recommend your services to a friend or colleague) can’t be overstated. So how do you generate more of those powerful, trusted referrals? The answer lies in something simple, authentic, and often overlooked: getting involved. Be Seen, Be Known, Be Trusted When you show up regularly in your local community, whether through business organizations, charitable events, or networking groups like PRE, you're giving people the opportunity to know you, trust you, and remember what you do. People do business with those they know and trust, and they refer others to people who’ve made a positive impression. That starts with visibility. Joining a local chamber of commerce, volunteering at a nonprofit, or sponsoring a community event are all ways to become a familiar and trusted name in your area. Build Relationships Before You Need Them Networking isn't just about handing out business cards or making a sales pitch. It's all about building meaningful relationships. The more time you spend cultivating genuine connections, the more likely those connections are to reciprocate. Take time to learn about others’ needs and offer support. More often than not, just being present make an impact. Professionals who consistently invest in their networks see significantly higher long-term growth than those who don’t. Networking should be an ongoing part of your business development strategy. Tap Into New Markets and Ideas Community involvement and professional networking also put you in touch with people outside your usual circles. This exposure can lead to: New referral sources you wouldn’t have otherwise met Collaborative opportunities like cross-promotions or partnerships Fresh ideas from professionals in different industries or specialties Mentorship and shared best practices from experienced peers Every handshake, introduction, or volunteer shift is a potential door to new business and not just from the person you're talking to. Generally, the real magic of networking happens one or two steps removed by way of referrals from people who heard about you from someone they trust. A Long-Term Investment That Pays Off Community involvement and intentional networking require a time investment, but the return can be tremendous. When people see you showing up consistently, supporting local causes, and contributing to group efforts, they associate you with trustworthiness, reliability, and professionalism. "I have been in PRE for over a decade, and even though I am booking new clients six months out, I will never leave. For me, the weekly meeting is my entire marketing funnel. People know me, trust me, and refer to me." - Bitsy McCann, Harrisburg, PA Chapter That’s the kind of reputation that builds a referral engine. Once you grow it, it continues to work long after the first introduction. Bottom Line: If you want to grow your business through referrals, don’t wait for them to come to you. Get involved. Be visible. Build relationships. Your community and network are full of potential clients, collaborators, and advocates. You just have to show up and meet them.