Where to meet people with future client potential

The job of a life insurance agent or financial advisor is often lonely, and it’s difficult too. When it comes to socializing, you might go out with fellow agents and advisors; however, it’s not the best way to meet potential clients. Let us consider another approach.

How about spending time at places that attract wealthy, successful people? You want to meet business owners and professionals. Consider organizations you join and pay dues to and take advantage of opportunities to socialize.

Let us look at nine examples of organizations.

1. Museums and cultural organizations. I like museums best. They usually have a members-only reception every time a new exhibition opens. You have an hour or two to mingle with people, many of whom are donors to the organization.
2. Hospitals. No, you are not hanging around the emergency room! There are usually events for donors to the organization. Check out their website. Logically, hospitals attract doctors and nurses, two well-paid professions.
3. Charities. This can also include social service charities. If they do fundraising, they have events for donors to attend.
4. Business organizations. The chamber of commerce comes to mind, but your area likely has professional organizations too. You might not be employed in that profession, but many groups have associate memberships for businesses selling services used by members. The associate level of membership should allow you to attend monthly meetings and mingle.
5. School alumni association. You need to have attended the school. This can be a great advantage because some graduates maintain a close tie to their school. College is one level, but your high school or prep school might have an alumni association too. They have events.
6. Country clubs. These are often private golf clubs, but they could be dining clubs in your city. These might be used as getaway locations where members can enjoy each other’s company and not talk about business. Some clubs have rules prohibiting showing business papers on the premises. You might make connections.
7. Community meetings. Do you live in a nice area? Chances are your neighbors are in the same economic bracket. There is often a homeowners association. As a local resident, you should have a right to attend meetings. It’s a way to get to know your neighbors.
8. Your religious organization. No, you are not prospecting within your faith. That could be seen as crossing a line. Unlike other organizations that focus on a specific economic segment, religious organizations serve a cross section of the local population. Everyone is welcome. Raising your visibility through attendance and involvement will help you meet new people.
9. Special interest clubs. This is ideal if you are a car club fan, wine enthusiast, birdwatcher or have another special interest. You meet people sharing the same passion. Some hobbies can be quite expensive.

There are many places you can spend some of your free time and meet new people. You expand your circle of friends, raise their awareness of what you do and get to know each other better.

Bryce Sanders is president of Perceptive Business Solutions Inc. His book “Captivating the Wealthy Investor” is available on Amazon.

For more ideas about networking:

• Read “Meeting wealthy people through community involvement”
• Watch “Networking your way to Top of the Table as a millennial” (MDRT member exclusive)