What to Expect When You Visit Early But Worth It

Visiting a new networking group can feel a little intimidating.

Who will be there? What should I bring? Will I have to speak?

The good news is that at Early But Worth It, we’ve created a welcoming environment where guests can relax, meet great people, and see if our group is the right fit for them.

Here’s what you can expect when you visit.

Arrive a Few Minutes Early

Our meetings begin promptly at 7:00 AM every Tuesday, but we encourage guests to arrive a few minutes early.

The first 10 minutes are dedicated to casual networking. Members catch up with one another, introduce themselves to guests, exchange business cards, and enjoy conversation before the formal meeting begins.

During this time you’ll also notice a few optional activities:

• A 50/50 raffle where members and guests may purchase tickets.

• Referral slips that members use to recognize referrals they’ve given throughout the week.

It’s relaxed, friendly, and a great opportunity to start meeting people before the meeting officially begins.

The Meeting Begins

Around 7:10 AM, the meeting is called to order.

We begin by introducing our leadership team, reviewing the core ideals that guide our group, and sharing a short educational presentation.

Our education segment is one of the things that makes Early But Worth It unique. Each week we spend a few minutes learning practical business and networking principles that help every member become more successful, both inside and outside the group.

Member Commercials

Next, each member has approximately 60 seconds to introduce themselves and share:

• What their business does

• What type of referrals they’re looking for

• How the group can best help them

• Tag line or memory hook

This gives everyone a chance to stay current on each other’s businesses and creates opportunities for referrals throughout the week.

Featured Business Presentation

Each meeting includes a 10-minute Featured Speaker.

This member has the opportunity to dive deeper into their business, explain their services, tell their story, and help everyone understand exactly how to recognize a great referral for them.

Many guests say this is one of the most valuable parts of the meeting because it demonstrates how well members get to know one another’s businesses.

“I Have…”

Near the end of the meeting we share our “I Have…” portion.

Members use this time to:

• Share referrals they’ve given

• Celebrate business successes

• Recommend fellow members

• Thank the Featured Speaker

• Recognize ways members have helped one another

This is where you’ll see the relationships within the group come to life.

We finish with announcements, an inspirational closing thought, and information about the following week’s meeting.

What We Ask of Our Guests

As our guest, there’s very little you need to do.

We simply ask that you:

Bring business cards.Bring about 20 to 30 business cards to pass around during the networking portion of the meeting. Most members will take one so they can remember your business.

Prepare a 60-second introduction.After all of the members have given their commercials, you’ll be invited to introduce yourself and your business with your own 60-second commercial.

Don’t worry about making it perfect. Simply tell us:

• Who you are

• What your business does

• What type of customers you serve

• What makes a great referral for you

At the end of the meeting, during the “I Have” portion, you’ll also have a brief opportunity to stand and thank the person who invited you, thank the speaker if you’d like, and quickly reintroduce yourself. This only takes about 10 to 15 seconds.

What Happens After the Meeting?

Plan to stay for about 10 to 15 minutes after the meeting.

One of our Membership Committee leaders will meet with you to answer any questions you have, learn more about your business, explain how membership works, and help you determine whether Early But Worth It is a good fit for you.

There is absolutely no pressure.

We want you to make the decision that’s best for your business.

Thinking About Joining?

You’re welcome to visit two meetings before deciding whether you’d like to apply for membership.

If you decide to move forward, we’ll ask you to complete a membership application and provide at least two business references.

Our Membership Committee then conducts a thorough review of every application. This process helps us maintain the high level of professionalism, integrity, and trust that our members value.

Once the review is complete, we’ll let you know whether you’ve been accepted into the group.

We Hope to Meet You Soon

Early But Worth It is more than a networking group.

We’re a community of local business professionals committed to helping one another grow through trusted relationships, referrals, education, and accountability.

Whether you’re exploring networking for the first time or looking for a group that genuinely invests in its members, we’d love to welcome you as our guest.

Come visit us, meet some great local professionals, and see firsthand what makes Early But Worth It different.

Start Early. Build Relationships. Grow Business.