Early in 2007 John Dickerson of American Roof Care, From The Top started a Business to Business networking group here in Villa Rica. Patterned after a group in Douglasville, John took it a step further. Starting small, just 2 or 3 people, it has grown to over 80 members. The Villa Rica B2B group meets every Tuesday, 8:00 AM at The Olive Tree Restaurant in Villa Rica.
A second group started in the fall of 2007 meets every Thursday, 8:00 AM at McGee’s Bakery on Rome Street in Carrollton. This group, started by Dickerson, is now hosted by Gary Hewitt of Southland Insurance Agency. Although still small, it is growing and Hewitt would like to invite anyone interested to come join in.
Membership is Free! There are no costs except the price of a cup of coffee and perhaps a doughnut. The majority of the members are small business owners who want to get the word out to as many people as possible at the lowest cost.
The format of the meetings starts with everyone giving a one minute “infomercial.” Next, one of the members gives a 7 minute presentation of their business. This lets the members know a little more about their business. Next, is the “Shout-Outs,” shout outs are about business done within the group or because of the group. Next announcements of events or happenings that members could get involved in. The meeting is then dismissed to let the “sales force” get out and sell.
Meetings are usually over by about 9 AM, but the concept does not end there. Members are encouraged to meet outside the meetings for lunch etc. to better get to know each other. As John says, “we are family!” When you get to know someone, you are more apt to refer them. Networking is all about referrals. Some people come to one meeting, don’t get instant results and never come back. Stay the distance, keep coming and business will happen.
The groups have their own websites, www.VRB2B.com and www.CarrolltonB2B.com. After a member has attended a couple of meetings, their business card and contact information is placed on the website. Attendance is not required, just encouraged.
So if you want to get plugged into a fast growing networking group, for Free, then show up at a meeting and join us for coffee.