Embracing First-Time Visitors

Guest Contributor: Debbie Lousberg
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Two different Master Mind groups I belong to have each welcomed guests in the last few weeks. It was interesting to watch what happened and remember what it felt like to be a first-time visitor to one of these dynamic groups.

One group meets weekly at a local restaurant and the facilitator did a wonderful job of letting the visitor know what to expect, how our structure works, and to just sit back and observe the process. She was then given the opportunity to tell us about her business, current challenges, and ask the group for advice. After the meeting, many members talked more with her one-on-one, she was given membership information and invited back for a 2nd visit. There was no confusion on her part and we all treated her as if she was already a member. We will welcome her back with the same open arms if she decides to visit again, or better still, officially join the group.

The other group is virtual - we meet once a month via phone since we are in different parts of the U.S. - and we are rather informal. One member asked to invite a guest who was interested in joining. He seemed to have lots of information and experience to share with the rest of us and was excited about the idea of joining our monthly calls. He was given the call-in information and a briefing by the member who invited him on what to expect and how we invite open discussion about our respective coaching businesses. He dialed in on time and was greeted warmly, asked to introduce himself, and to chime in on any of the topics being discussed. This visitor jumped right in and became very comfortable with our informal friendly discussion. He asked about next month’s call and has committed to becoming a member.

The difference in the groups is obvious - one is very structured and has a fee-based membership. The members are committed to the development of their companies and embrace the idea of paying monthly dues for the privilege of being part of a supportive, professional group led by a business expert. The other is casual, conference call based, and made up of open discussion led by no one in particular. We adapt to whichever pressing issue any one brings to the conference call table and easily stay in touch throughout the month via email. The similarity of the groups is even more obvious to me and perhaps surprising to our first-time visitors - we are all of the mindset that we can succeed in whatever endeavor we choose with the support of like minds. Remember this wonderful aspect of "Master Minding" regardless of your group's structure or size and be proud of the image and energy we give to our visitors. They'll soon get the hang of it and learn that there’s no catch - we gather together simply to support each other in reaching our goals!

Enjoy your week!