Life happens, and there may be mornings when attending your regular business network referral breakfast meeting isn’t possible. Whether it’s a business obligation, personal emergency, or simply being out of town, missing a meeting doesn’t have to mean losing out on valuable connections and opportunities. One of the smartest strategies for staying engaged is sending a substitute in your place. Here are the key benefits of doing so:
- Maintain Visibility
Out of sight often means out of mind in networking groups, but sending a substitute keeps you present. Your business’s name continues to circulate within the group, reinforcing your brand’s presence even when you’re not there. This consistency helps build long-term relationships with your fellow members and ensures they remember you for referrals.
- Ensure Referrals Keep Coming Your Way
Many networking groups operate on a “give and get” model, where members are expected to pass referrals regularly. By sending a substitute, you signal to the group that you’re committed, even if you can’t be there in person. This helps sustain the flow of referrals to your business, as members see you as reliable and actively involved.
- Strengthen Relationships
Sending a substitute—such as a team member or colleague—offers an opportunity for your network to meet someone else from your business. This can deepen the group’s understanding of your services and even build stronger connections, as they get to know other members of your team. Plus, it shows your substitute that you value their role in representing your business.
- Foster New Networking Opportunities
Your substitute may bring a fresh perspective or new business opportunities to the table. They could meet someone who has a direct interest in your services or start conversations you might not have initiated yourself. These new connections can lead to unexpected opportunities and expand your networking reach beyond your usual contacts.
- Demonstrate Professionalism and Commitment
By arranging for a substitute, you’re showing that you take your networking commitment seriously. This level of professionalism reflects well on you and your business, highlighting that you value the group’s time and engagement even when you can’t attend personally.
- Avoid Missed Updates
Networking groups often discuss upcoming events, changes in procedures, or new opportunities for collaboration. By sending a substitute, you ensure that you don’t miss out on important information. Your substitute can bring back updates and insights, keeping you informed and ready to engage when you return.
- Keeps Your Seat Active
In many referral groups, members hold exclusive spots for their industry. Regular attendance is key to maintaining this spot. Sending a substitute helps you avoid violating attendance policies, ensuring you don’t lose your position in the group or miss out on valuable business leads.
Sending a substitute to your network referral breakfast meeting is a smart, proactive way to stay engaged with your group, maintain your visibility, and ensure that referrals continue to flow your way. It demonstrates your commitment to the group, helps foster relationships, and can even open up new opportunities. Next time you can’t attend a meeting, don’t hesitate to send someone in your place—you may be surprised by the benefits that come your way!
More about Louis Swanepoel:
Louis Swanepoel, a dedicated and results-driven property manager, brings over a decade of experience in managing residential and commercial properties with a focus on maximizing value for owners while ensuring tenant satisfaction. Known for his exceptional communication skills and attention to detail, Louis excels in overseeing property operations, optimizing financial performance, and delivering seamless tenant relations. His commitment to excellence and passion for the real estate industry make him a trusted leader in property management. Louis is now available to bring his expertise to new property management opportunities. Contact Louis@ChasePacific.com