Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of questions that are frequently asked by visitors. If you still have questions please do not hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to help.

• How often are the meetings?

  EBF meets every week on Thursday mornings. We meet over a good breakfast just before the business day gets started … so that it does not interfere with our usual work routine. We do take a week off over Xmas / New Year.

• What happens if I can’t make it?

  There will clearly be odd occasions when holidays, sickness or an important event will mean you miss a week at EBF. The good thing is we have a network which enables you to contact substitutes to ensure your message is always heard at meetings. You can also invite a work colleague, business client, friend or family member to take your seat on that occasion. We know you aim to be there every week and so we’ll understand when that odd occasion crops up.

• What if I don’t think I can bring a referral every week?

  Although important, referrals are only one facet of the EBF meetings. You can make valuable contributions every week by holding one-on-one meetings with other chapter members, bringing visitors, and by giving written testimonials for work done by other chapter members.

• Will I get training?

  EBF is more than a referrals organisation. We’ll provide all sorts of other opportunities to assist you in your business development. Part of this is training in the methods and processes that we have proven are effective in EBF. Some of this will occur directly as an education slot within each meeting. Other times you will be able to attend a special workshop.

• I don’t like public speaking, is this appropriate for me?

  The great thing is we are all in the same boat. Very few of the members have had formal public speaking training. The worry soon disappears when we remember that we are only on our feet for 60 seconds and that we are each talking about something we are very familiar with … our own businesses. Nobody is looking for polished speakers. The meetings are more practical and down to earth than that. Simply jot down a few words to remind you of what you want to tells us or, if you wish, write it out in full and read it out. Half an A4 sheet is usually enough to fill that minute and to tell us what sort of client you are looking for. We’ll also provide you with an effective outline, that many use, as it includes all the important bits.

• How do I network?

  EBF is a way of amplifying the networking that you already do! You already use word-of-mouth marketing; telling people what your business does, listening to what they do and, perhaps, recommending a colleague.  EBF builds on this greatly, because your fellow members carry your business cards with them and will actively promote your business.

• Will there be other people from my profession in the group?

  There will be members in related and associated trades and professions, but only you will occupy your specific business description. You’ll not be competing with others in the same field. The value of having related professions as members grows with the concept of “Power Groups” … comprising business with complementary interests who can then increase their impact in the market place.