However, as a business person if you are really interested in business and want to learn more, keep up with this vast and fascinating business trends putting in a few thousands to join a business club is worth it.
Though quite a new concept in Kenya more and more business people are becoming part of these Businesses clubs.
Business Clubs are also referred to as professional societies or professional communities. These organizations are partly social, partly professional in nature and provide professionals with opportunities for advanced education, presentations on current research, business contacts, public advocacy for the profession and other advantages.
Business clubs provide platforms for the growth of businesses by offering them solutions and advisory services to the entrepreneurs and supporting them to grow. In Nairobi for instance, there are a number of business clubs that one can join ie. Capital Club East Africa, Rotary Club of Kenya just to mention but a few.
Apart from business clubs that are perceived to be expensive, one can opt to join business communities and networks like Nairobi Garage, where just like the business club, one can tap into the myriad of opportunities that come with being part of our community.
From great networking opportunities with your peers to accessing capital and business funds here are more advantages that come with joining business clubs
Great Networking opportunities
Business Clubs are home to the movers and shakers of the business world and perhaps the best opportunity and the motivation behind many Members joining the Business Clubs are the networking opportunities. Networking is a crucial part of success in the business world, interacting and engaging with like-minded people who are looking for mutually beneficial relationships, can be the key to growing a successful business. After all it’s not what you know, it’s often who you.
Mentorship.
Professional communities and Business Clubs are often the breeding ground for authentic mentoring relationships. Many business Clubs will give you access to several individuals that you can discuss your greatest fears and challenges with. These relationships begin because the members genuinely want to see each other succeed, and they can contribute a lot to self-growth as a business owner.
Business Opportunities
Business Clubs also give you access to an entire group of people that potentially need the product or service you offer, or they can introduce you to their contacts that do. This then simply mean more leads, more sales and more revenue for your business which comes as a benefit of being an active member of a community.
However, the downside to this is that you need to be careful and avoid being annoying by probably pushing your product too much. Nobody wants to network with the person constantly self-promoting. If you provide value to other members you will automatically draw interest in what it is that you and your business offers.
Unlimited Resources
So many valuable resources can be untapped through business clubs from vendor introductions to funding and capital access. Try to make introductions when you see fit, as members will typically be more willing to help if they see you are actively trying to benefit the community as well.
Great exposure
Business owners and entrepreneurs are often in their own little bubble, and being around professionals in other industries can have a positive impact on your growth and development. For example if everything you focus on is legal-focused or more into the marketing and Public Relation front then the business clubs offer you a chance to be around other entrepreneurs in other businesses, it exposes one to new ideas and outlooks.
Increases your company’s visibility
People like to do business with a company that features a familiar face. This is why law firm marketing and advertising will almost always feature the firm’s team. A professional community helps to get your name and face out there, both nationally and locally. Your activity within the community has a direct impact on your visibility.
Makes work more fun
They say all work with play makes Jack a dull boy and entrepreneurship can be a lonely place especially where late nights and long weekends are involved. Most business clubs normally host events that are not necessarily work related. With this the club can help you connect with like-minded entrepreneurs who share the same interests. These events can be the beginning of lifelong friendships, and help you build a solid network of people you can turn to during difficult and frustrating times.