Guest Contributor: Reg Gupton
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A while back my Master Mind Group decided to expand our number. We had been stable for quite some time. A person we met at a networking event found out that we had a group. He indicated that he was interested exploring the benefits. We were open to exploring his joining the group. We hadn't been for a while.
We had previously established a protocol on how to integrate new members. We had brainstormed and discussed the options that we arrived at as a group. We decided the following: The potential member is invited to attend from 2 to 4 meeting while we get acquainted. We each determine if there is a good fit.
Both of us is on probation for these first few meetings. At the first meeting we explain and discuss the expectations and agreements. The potential new member can say that s/he has no interest and we can do the same. Hopefully there are no hard feelings.
The existing members are looking for intellect and clarity of thinking from the new members . We have challenges to solve, opportunities to explore, projects to move forward and we, like all people, need an additional perspective or point of view that we don't already have. We can offer the same things to a new member.
The first potential member began attending meetings. After a minimum of meetings we extended an offer to join the group permanently. It was accepted. We have a great fit. He was bright, thoughtful and brought a new, interesting point of view that we had not experienced before.
Subsequently, a past member referred a friend to us. I did an initial phone interview and invited her to the initial series of meetings as outlined above. The new member attended her first several meetings. She asked great questions. We taught a lot.
No contribution from her. No value added. No clarity of thinking. No perspective that we did not have from an existing member. Not a good fit. Our view is that these meetings contain both problem solving for each person and contributions, too.
This person needed a less sophisticated group or a mentor/coach. We are not set up to do this. Lots of learning needed to take place. We were not in a place to deliver the required teaching.
The person was called and a very gently uninvited. We were very specific about what we thought would be a better course of action for her.
I hope she finds what she needs. I believe she will.
Labels: integrate new members, networking event, potential member, probation, Reg Gupton
