The Saint Expeditus Networking Group

In July, I learned of an interesting and exciting networking possibility: The Saint  Expeditus Networking Group, a Richmond-based Catholic-oriented business networking group of individuals in non-competing professions who look to expand their businesses by generating leads for each other. I know that the concept is not new, and such networking organizations have mixed results. This one appears different, primarily because it has a fraternal bent: We are all Catholic.

Organizations of any kind function best — especially fledgling ones — when the people involved have a common purpose in addition to the business model. One cannot underestimate the natural bonds of anything fraternal, especially dedicated Catholics. People are more likely to work hard, watch out for, and mentor each other.

From a business learning perspective, I like the environment because, in order for this to succeed, each member must learn the other members’ businesses so as to be able to speak intelligently about it when coming across a potential lead. Public relations professionals must do that as a matter of course to fully understand and provide the best and most effective service for their clients.

So this skill comes naturally to me. In addition, each member of the group is an instant potential client because each has a business and is proving that they are eager to generate more. Thus, the potential to use my services. This isn’t true for everyone. For example, not everyone needs insurance right now or has a house going on the market. So, as the group expands, if I join, each new member is a potential client, not to mention the leads each member will generate  for me. In addition, working within the group, providing its public relations and social media content would allow me to further enhance my skills and make yet more contacts.  

I will decide after Labor Day if I will join the Saint Expeditus Networking Group (a career option may preclude membership). It is a wonderful set of very intelligent, successful and resourceful men and women looking to increase their market share in their respective fields. A well-organized networking group with like-minded people who share a common background is a worthy endeavor for business development.