Networking: Exclusive seats vs. Non-Exclusive seats

I've had several people recently bring up a discussion of exclusive networking groups vs. non-exclusive networking groups, so I thought this would be a good topic to bring to my blog.

Please note: This is just my opinion

1. Exclusive Networking Groups 

        Pros

• No competition in your industry
• Many exclusive groups are highly based on passing referrals (lead share)

        Cons

• We all have specific referral partners, if you don't have chemistry with that person in your group, you're pretty much stuck. 
• If you don't care for someone in a specific seat in an industry, you may not want to refer them business, but feel obligated to.

2. Non-Exclusive Networking Groups

          Pros

• You are not excluded from joining regardless of how many other people in the group are in your industry.
• You are able to invite anyone you know/meet to visit the group without worrying that you're stepping on anyone's toes. 
• You have the opportunity to have several referrals partners in the same industry, in your group. 
• You learn that there is so much business out there that it's OK to share. 
• Sometimes you will meet someone in your own industry and can become a referral partner with them.
• A lot of non-exclusive networking groups are educational groups.

          Cons

• Can be an unlimited number of other members who are in your industry, which means more competition.
• Many non-exclusive networking groups aren't referral based.

As you can see from my thoughts above, I like non-exclusive groups better than exclusive. I think the pros far outweigh the cons. I really have no problem with a bunch of other insurance agents in the room. I am confident in who I am and what I have to offer. I love the educational aspect to non-exclusive groups and find that I form far stronger relationships when the entire meeting isn't focused on "selling" each other. I've said it before, there is more than enough business out there for everyone. I can't write everyone's policy, there just aren't enough hours in the day - even though I know you'd all like for me to be your agent! It's just not possible.  ; )

I'd love to hear your thoughts and opinions on this topic. Please comment below! 

MW

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