Organizations to join as an Entrepreneur
Today, we’d like to recommend eight different organizations that you should join in order to aid in the development of skills and connections that will help you further both personal and business goals.
The Chamber of Commerce
Not any one specific organization, there are Chambers of Commerce around the world, many cities harboring their own. These are groups of local entrepreneurs and businessmen much like yourself from many different sectors, and walks of life. These organizations often hold regular networking events throughout the year, offering a great place to help you build local connections. With your membership you will have access to every “World Trade Centers” around the world, this is a great asset for any entrepreneur.
The Rotary Club
Rotary International is a large charity organization, bringing together individuals in clubs around the world, for the purpose of changing the world for the better. Gathering together various skilled individuals, Rotary Clubs around the world have worked to give back to their local communities, and help increase the standard of living in foreign communities around the world. Even now, their fight against Polio is almost complete, having eradicated it from over 100 countries since 1976.
Yoga Classes
While certainly valuable as a source of exercise, the benefits of a yoga class extend beyond this. An excellent time to relax and disconnect from the world at large, a time to take for yourself. In addition, both life coaches and successful entrepreneurs laud the benefits of meditation, and how it is core to maintaining a good life/work balance.
Private dining club & Golf Course
Joining a golf club may seem odd if you don’t play the sport, but don’t discount the networking opportunities. Many successful business people play golf at these clubs, and the value of rubbing shoulders with the affluent cannot be understated. A membership at a golf club also has worldwide value, as many clubs are part of larger networks, granting you access to greens & private dining clubs across the globe.
A Charity
A cause is a powerful thing. Choose a charity, an organization which addresses a problem you hold dear and are passionate about, and take part. Don’t just donate your money, donate your time. Give back to your community in return for their support of your business, you will only garner friends.
Toast Masters
An international organization founded on the principle of fostering public speaking and leadership skills. Joining a local Toast Masters club is a great way to network with other enterprising individuals, as well as providing you with an educational environment to build your public speaking and leadership skills.
Ashoka
A global organization of the world’s leading social entrepreneurs, focusing on tackling social problems across the world. The largest benefit of Ashoka is its exclusivity. Ashoka has less than three thousand “fellows” worldwide, each selected by a rigorous process. While the size of the network is limited, the value of the connections are magnified.
Entrepreneurs Organization
A large, vibrant, worldwide network of Entrepreneurs, EO has a strong focus on mentorship, and growth of your professional skills by working with others from various industries. EO’s members will help you find solutions to current problems with your business, and help you grow your business worldwide.
Written by: Travis Sareault (The Mark STAFF writer)
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THE MARK CONSULTING & MARKETING