GrowthSync and local networking groups
Breakfast clubs and referral groups have built a lot of businesses. They also ask for a fixed slot in your week and often keep one seat per profession. Here is how GrowthSync differs.
The short answer
Local networking groups meet in person on a regular schedule, and many referral groups seat only one member per profession and ask for regular attendance and a membership fee. GrowthSync has no seat limits and no attendance rules: business owners are matched on what they offer and need, join industry communities, and go to or host events, online or in person, with a free plan that is permanent.
At a glance
- Who you meet
- GrowthSyncBusiness owners matched on what you offer and need, anywhereLocal networking groupsThe members of one local group
- Seats per profession
- GrowthSyncNo limitLocal networking groupsMany referral groups keep one seat per profession
- Time commitment
- GrowthSyncWhenever suits youLocal networking groupsRegular meetings, often weekly, with attendance expected
- Cost
- GrowthSyncFree, permanently, with optional paid plansLocal networking groupsUsually a membership fee, plus meeting costs
- Meeting in person
- GrowthSyncMember-hosted events, in person or onlineLocal networking groupsThe core of the format
- Size
- GrowthSyncNew and still smallLocal networking groupsDepends on the group
What local groups do well
Seeing the same people every week builds trust that is hard to build any other way. Members get to know each other's businesses well enough to refer with confidence, and the routine keeps people accountable. If you are in a good group, that is worth keeping.
Where the format can hold you back
- One seat per profession. If your profession is already taken in the group near you, you wait or travel.
- A fixed slot in your week. Regular attendance is part of the deal, which is hard if your diary changes.
- One room. You meet the members of that group, which may or may not include the people your business needs.
How GrowthSync differs
GrowthSync starts from fit rather than from a room. You say what your business offers and what you are looking for, and Discover shows you the members whose needs match, scored out of 100 in both directions. There is no limit on how many accountants or designers can join, and no attendance rule.
You still meet people in person: any member can host an event, free once a month, and events are found by subject, city and distance. Many owners will want both: a local group for the weekly rhythm and GrowthSync for reaching the specific people the group does not include.
Common questions
Is GrowthSync a referral group?
No. There are no seats, chapters or attendance rules. Business owners are matched on what they offer and need, and meet in communities, through opportunities and at member-hosted events.
Can I use GrowthSync alongside my local networking group?
Yes. A local group gives you a regular room; GrowthSync helps you reach the specific people that room does not include, and lets you host your own events.
Does GrowthSync limit members by profession?
No. Any number of members in the same profession can join.
Meet the business owners who fit what you are building.
Joining is free, your profile takes a few minutes, and the free plan is permanent.