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Start a Referral Club

Written by: Donald F. Pooley

Article Overview: Last issue's BBB idea of a breakfast club brought TIP these ideas from a subscriber who started his own referral club.

Start a Referral Club

Last issue's BBB idea of a breakfast club brought TIP these ideas from a subscriber who started his own referral club.
Peter O'Rourke began ”City Club” in Mississauga in the fall of 2001 with two friends. It now counts 25 businessmen and professionals (lawyers and CAs) as members. Each business must have at least 5 employees, and professional firms at least 3 partners. There is only one member per category.
They meet every other Wednesday for a buffet lunch (so there is no delay waiting for the meal). In the intervening weeks each member is encouraged to lunch with another member.
At each meeting members are given 2 pages from the local business directory, and each member is asked to indicate if they have a contact at each listed company, or if they would like to get a contact at that company.
Peter says, “The whole key is to run the club professionally and be very selective about new members. We interview every member at their place of business and new members have to be approved by the Board of Directors. Some have been rejected.
“Membership fees are $300 per year. This is used for social events, development of a club website, and a paid part-time secretary. We registered with the government to protect our name, and to project a professional image. The operation of the club is governed by its constitution which is signed and approved by the City Club's Board of Directors.
“Our internet member is designing a website where we'll post local business changes such as new businesses, expansions, executive appointments, etc., as change creates opportunity.
“Some members are now presenting seminars together. One, who wrote a book on financial planning, runs seminars with the accountant and lawyer, which has produced prospects for all.
“And in May we're holding a social event where each member is expected to bring two key business clients.”
Congratulations, Peter, on a great way to build your image, and attract high quality prospects!

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