How to Get the Most Out of Your EFBC Membership
So you’ve already joined EFBC—nice job! You’ve taken an important step toward fostering growth and support for your business and professional development. Now, it’s time to make the most of your membership by actively engaging with the resources, connections, and opportunities EFBC provides. Here are some tips to ensure you’re getting the full value out of your membership:
1. Engage with Your Forum
At the heart of EFBC are our Forums, where members connect monthly in a small, confidential setting to dive deeper into the challenges and victories of business leadership.
How Forums Work
- Each Forum has nine members who meet monthly.
- One member presents a current issue they are facing, while others offer support through shared experiences, not advice.
- Discussions are guided by Forum Protocols, including clarifying questions, shared experiences, and appreciation.
Forum Options
- Full Forum: Dedicated peer group with deep engagement.
- Flex Forum: Flexible option tailored to individual needs.
Forum Protocols
- Clarifying Questions: Non-judgmental questions from genuine curiosity, often leading to deeper insights.
- Shared Experiences: Members share relevant successes or mistakes instead of giving advice.
- Appreciation: A dedicated time to express gratitude and boost each other’s self-esteem.
Forums foster trust, mutual respect, and equality, creating a supportive space where members share personal and professional experiences.
2. Attend Events and Workshops
EFBC hosts a variety of events throughout the year, designed to provide practical education, foster community, and offer networking opportunities.
Event Categories
- Workshops: Practical training sessions.
- Roundtables: Open discussions for sharing and learning from peers.
- Fireside Chats: Insights and Q&A with industry experts.
- Breakfast Club/Seminars: Casual learning and networking opportunities.
- Community Events: Partnered initiatives to serve the broader community.
3. Leverage Educational Resources
EFBC equips members with essential knowledge and skills through programs that empower them to work on their businesses rather than in them.
- Resources: Articles, guides, recorded webinars, the Transition Preparation Assessment (TPA), and a rich array of insights from our strategic partners’ resources, blogs, and newsletters—all accessible on their company websites.
- Action Step: Subscribe to EFBC’s newsletter or community hub updates and explore our strategic partners’ resources to ensure you don’t miss new resources.
4. Build Relationship with Fellow Members
Networking is a cornerstone of EFBC’s mission. Take the time to build genuine relationships with other members, both inside and outside of your Forum. These connections can lead to valuable collaborations, mentorships, and lifelong friendships.
Networking Tips
- Attend informal meetups or social events.
- Connect with members on LinkedIn and follow up to strengthen connections.
5. Utilize the Community Hub on Hivebrite
Make the most of the EFBC Community Hub by:
- Using the discussion board or live feed to ask for advice, share business questions, or simply say hello.
- Exploring your Forum group and interest groups to foster deeper connections.
Membership isn’t just about what you receive; it’s also about what you give. Share your expertise, offer support to peers, and volunteer for initiatives within EFBC. Your contributions will enrich the community and deepen your engagement.
6. Tap Into Strategic Partners
EFBC’s eight Strategic Partners are your lifeline—just a phone call away. Their expertise spans law, finance, marketing, accounting, insurance, human resources, banking, and IT, making them invaluable resources for members. Fluent in the EFBC way, these devoted firms offer consulting, answer questions, and provide tailored guidance. Through one-on-one support and educational workshops, they empower members with the knowledge and tools to navigate challenges effectively.
7. Set Personal and Professional Goals
Define clear goals for what you want to achieve. Whether it’s developing leadership skills, expanding your network, or resolving a specific business challenge, having a focus will help you utilize EFBC resources effectively.
8. Stay Involved Year-Round
Consistency is key. Engage with EFBC regularly to maintain momentum and stay connected to the community’s benefits. This ongoing involvement ensures you’ll continue to reap the rewards of membership.
EFBC Stats
- $2,983,840,000: Member Companies’ Total Revenue
- 6,349: Membership Total Years in Business
- 10,159: Jobs Created by Member Companies
Membership Levels
EFBC offers multiple membership levels tailored to meet the needs of diverse members.
Enterprise Membership ($4,900/year)
- Full Forum placement for one.
- Access to over 25 programs and events for you, your family, and your company every year.
Pro Membership ($2,450/year)
- Membership for one individual.
- Yearly access to Flex Forum.
- Access to over 25 programs and events.
Add-On Membership ($1,225/year)
- Option for Enterprise Members to add key employees or family members.
- One Full Forum placement.
- Access to Flex Forum.
By actively participating and leveraging the full range of EFBC offerings, you’ll unlock opportunities for growth, collaboration, and success. Your membership is an investment in yourself, your business, and your future—so make the most of it!