As we approach Thanksgiving, I’m feeling very thankful for the Alternative Business Networking Group (ABNG). This remarkable organization recently celebrated its 9th anniversary.

 

What is ABNG?

Quoting from part of the About section of the ABNG Meetup group:

“At the Alternate Business Networking Group (ABNG) we want to attract members that are not only interested in getting referrals, but also want to give of themselves to encourage and help strengthen the businesses of the other group members. And, of course, we want to pass along quality referrals we may have.

The key to a truly effective business network is establishing trusting relationships that are safe. We all know the business adage, “we do business with those we know, like, and trust”…

If you are only looking for an opportunity to push your business on others, this is not the group for you. If you are interested in establishing advocates for you and your business AND are willing to give to others as well, then we encourage you to check out the Alternative Business Networking Group.”

Read more about the group at https://www.meetup.com/TheABNG/

There is no charge to join the group, and there are no attendance requirements. However, there are rules, such as members are not allowed to pitch their services, and they are expected to show up at a meeting if they have RSVP’d that they are coming.

The group operates through seven chapters, located throughout the greater Denver metro area. All meetings are in a restaurant, and most are over the lunch hour.

All chapter meetings last for one hour and are facilitated by a trained volunteer leader. At each meeting, there are member introductions, announcements of events, shout outs for other members, and discussion of business topics.

 

My Experience as a Member and Leader in ABNG

I first learned about ABNG in the spring of 2013 just as I was starting my business on a full-time basis. A friend from a social media networking group encouraged me to check out ABNG.

At the first meeting, I was struck with how friendly and welcoming everyone was. They made me feel at home, right from the start. Soon I started attending the meetings of a couple of chapters a few times a month.

Then almost a year later, the head of the volunteer leaders recruited me into leadership. I’ve been hosting the meetings of the Lakewood chapter of ABNG for over six years. It’s been such an honor to serve the group in this capacity.

I’m so grateful for all its members who have used my services as a social media tutor and trainer, and for the members who have referred others to me.

 

What Members Appreciate About ABNG

At a recent meeting of the Lakewood chapter, I asked attendees what they most appreciated about ABNG.

Here’s a sampling of their responses:

  • Great place to meet new people in an easy and nonjudgmental environment, which is especially helpful to an introvert
  • The sense of community and how friendly everyone is
  • The relationships and friendships formed with other members
  • How members support each other
  • Feeling more confident and prepared to do public speaking
  • Gaining insights on ways that different people operate a business
  • Finding out about resources available to business owners

 

How About You?

What types of business networking groups work well for you? Are there some that you are especially grateful for? How has your experience with such groups changed over time?

 

About Joyce

 

Joyce Feustel helps people, especially those age 50 and up, to become more effective using social media, especially Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Twitter. She works with business owners, nonprofit organizations, consultants, and many others. Find her at www.boomerssocialmediatutor.com.