So your MeetUp Group has begun. Good for you, because you have taken a courageous step in building your business platform.

Now let’s take a look at the 3 stages of growth for your MeetUp group, and how to handle the challenges of each.

3 Stages of MeetUp Growth

Stage 1 – Uncomfortable beginnings – Do you know that when NASA launches a space shuttle mission, most of the energy is expended in getting it off the ground? It’s the same way when you launch your MeetUp group. There will be lots of energy expended, and sometimes you will wonder if it is worth it.

A common challenge – The first meeting can be uncomfortable, especially if you have only a few attendees. And you may have just a few for the first few meetings until things take off for you.

Response – I had only 3 people at my first MeetUp. I actually thought about canceling it, but didn’t. And I’m so glad I didn’t because by hanging in there I was able to build a winning and profitable platform. The solution is to keep going, and build on and with what you have.

Stage 2 – Building your tribe – Once you have your meeting up and running, the next challenge is to grow it. It’s important that you devote enough time for your tribe to develop. It will help you if you provide a bonus incentive to have current members bring in new members.

A common challenge – A common challenge at this stage is to have a member try to take over your meeting and make it their own platform.

Response – Simple invite them to get their own meeting, and show them how. While that may sound harsh, you must remember this is your meeting.

Stage 3 – You become a “star in your own backyard” – This is a good problem to have. It means you have worked hard and built strong platform for yourself.

A common challenge – A common challenge at this stage is to have some of the members want to form a mastermind group with you. The problem with this is you want to be in a mastermind with people who are at or above your current level of expertise.

Response – Thank them for the compliment and encourage them to form their own. Let them know you value masterminds so much that you are already in your own and your plate is full. Encourage them that no matter what they decide you want them to continue in your MeetUp.