We all know that networking is an essential part of growing a business. Using clubs is a fun and effective way to network, develop relationships and build your business. For example, if you sell books, it would make great sense to start or join a book club. The goal is to gather likeminded people together, nurture relationships, and help increase business by using a social setting. Consider people in your target market, in your local community and current customers. Here are some club ideas to start or join.

•  Book clubs – If you’re an avid reader, finding a book club will be easy and fun. You’ll be interacting with people who share your interests and also building a rapport as you gather with them on a regular basis (most book clubs meet once or twice a month).
• Exercise clubs – Whether you’re into running, yoga, swimming, or the like, start an in-home or join a fitness club. Running a business is bound to pile on the stress, so decompress with some physical activity.  What better way to multitask then to exercise, share your opportunity and network simultaneously?
• Moms clubs and/or playgroups – If you’re a parent of young children, this will benefit both you and them.  Playgroups are usually informal get-togethers either at someone’s house or a recreation center where the children have unstructured playtime; they also allow for the parents to socialize with each other.  For example, if you are a stay-at-home mom, you’ll be surrounding yourself with other moms in the same situation.  It’s an effective way to learn about the interests of others and share your own personal and professional interests.  For those that work outside the home during the day, many areas have playgroups that meet one evening a week.  Try a website like Meetup or Craigslist to find what is locally available.
• Scrapbooking/craft clubs – If you enjoy arts and crafts, consider taking up scrapbooking.  You undoubtedly have a box of pictures somewhere that have never quite made it into an album, or perhaps you have hundreds of pictures still taking up space on your memory card.  Find a scrap-a-thon in your community where you can network while participating in a fun activity.  You’ll be able to share personal interests as you work with others who are displaying pictures of family and friends.  Scrapbooking can be an easy way to break the ice and introduce yourself to others.

Whatever kind of club you choose to network and build your business, it is important that you keep it social and enjoyable.  Your enthusiasm for the activity will help others get to know you, while you make new friends who may be able to help you in building your business.  Joining clubs not only leads you to build relationships and increase your network, but it gets you and your business involved in the community.  What are some of your ideas for using clubs to build your business?  Share with us in the comments section below!

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