Mayfield Network Group

Success in business is an investment in relationships

The Mayfield Network Club meets for breakfast every Wednesday to share leads and tips, to learn more about each member's business and to explore issues that affect Edmonton's business community. Each meeting begins with the sharing of information and concludes with a presentation by a member or guest speaker.

Members pay $35 per month and commit to attend regularly with good information and direct leads that will benefit the others in the club - or risk a token fine! Each member represents a different industry, guaranteeing a spirit of cooperation rather than competition among members. Although there is no obligation to use or recommend the services of a club-mate, the trust and friendship that develops over time benefits everyone.

HISTORY

In September 1987, the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce started six breakfast networking clubs. The Mayfield Breakfast Club was held at the Mayfield Inn and was attended by eight people.

The first year was a struggle to increase membership and to produce leads. The major rule for all the clubs was and remains "one person from one industry". One of the original clubs ended up with a membership of 12 and five of the members were in the life insurance industry.

As time passed, the club became structured with a board of officers and a constitution. The name of the club was changed to Mayfield Network Club and the location of the meeting was changed to the Executive Royal West Edmonton Inn.

People from various industries have joined the club. Some have attended a few meetings and left and others have stayed with the club for years.

The club always is looking for new members. From time to time, we have had recruitment drives. On one occasion FIVE cellular phone sales people came to the meeting. This is one industry area we have never been able to keep filled.

For many members, the club has been a starting place in their business. Some members have changed careers and there was a conflict with other members and they moved on. There have been members who have left the club because they were too busy to attend. The club sometimes goes beyond the weekly meeting and some strong friendships have developed. We attempt one social per year.

The value of membership is different for each member. Don Haines was our first real estate agent and said, "If I get one lead a year, I am content".