NetWorks! means ROI. More importantly, it means maximizing that magical equation. In order to fully understand this concept we must be first willing to accept that there is a difference between an expense and an investment. When we expense something we expect to receive something of equal value in return. However, with an investment we reasonably expect to get back much more. We anticipate the “gift that keeps on giving”. That, my friend, is ROI. That, my friend, is NetWorks!
Let me ask you a few simple questions. Do you go to a restaurant for lunch two or more times per week? If you “brown bag” it….would you like to be able to eat out (smile)? When you do go out to lunch, would you classify that as an expense or as an investment? Certainly, if you are taking a client to lunch, I would call that an investment. Even better, half that lunch date, per IRS rules, may be tax deductible.
Membership in NetWorks! is only $25.00 per week. And, that includes a nice lunch. You and I both know that a decent lunch these days will end up costing you easily over $10.00 with tax and tip. I’d say closer to $12.50. I have a client that happens to like Sushi. Me, I don’t even like cooked fish but…………he’s a really good client (smile). Sushi….. $25.00 per head. So, even at $12.50 for a lunch, now your investment in NetWorks! is only $12.50 per week or probably three lattes. And, it gets better. Your entire dues, $1,200.00/year, are likely tax deductible. Ask your accountant and your accountant ain’t me (smile).
So, I’m getting fed and I’m deducting my expenses so my necessary investment in NetWorks! is now probably less than $10.00 per week. What do I get for that?
- I have an opportunity to network weekly with sales and marketing professionals from other industries who are anxious to see me succeed as they are for themselves.
- My fellow members may very well be willing to provide me with access to their valuable clientele. It’s up to me to earn that right to ask for their help.
- I will come away with an average of 25-30 solid new leads, updates, or referrals weekly and most of those include contact names and phone numbers.
- I am able to track, and update, these leads on our web based, password protected, CRM.
- I am given an opportunity to promote my business weekly.
- I can take advantage of our guest speakers, resource tools, and education programs.
Folks, this is really simple math. I’d be lying to you if I did not say that I simply can not understand it when a prospective member tells me that they can’t join because their company will not pay their dues. Remember, we have reduced the investment, after meals and taxes, to less than $500.00 per year. If they are a salaried employee, but are expected to bring in new business, this is a great investment for any company to make. If they are paid directly, at least in part, based on commissions on new business………..? Good Lord, I’ve been around long enough to know that 10% commission on new business is a common and reasonable amount. Therefore, and additional $5,000.00 per year in sales and it has paid for itself? Hell, I joined a group a few years back before I started NetWorks! and made a $65,000.00 sale off of my first meeting. And, this was a very marginal group at best.
So, how can it possibly be that I encounter any resistance to making the investment needed to join the group? Maybe it lies in this well worn “closing” technique…… “Is it the group?” No, the group is great. “Is it the money?” No, sounds more than reasonable. “Then……it must be me?”. Yes, Craig, you are a crummy salesperson (smile).
Thanks for visiting!
Craig
