As a director of a business, I’m sure you will often struggle for time, resources, training or just the simple ability to chew the fat with likeminded people. Your also probably fed up with the saturated business networking events that are popping up everywhere, which have the constant feel that everyone is trying to ‘sell’ to you.
This was me several years ago. After speaking to several other directors, the Institute of Directors (IoD) kept popping up. After a quick google, I didn’t think it was for me. Having a Tech business background, the IoD looked a little too Grand for my needs which initially put me off joining.
So why did I join?
After hearing more and more positive feedback about the IoD, coupled with the newly released IoD 99 membership for young directors and start-ups I thought I would give it a go.
First Impressions…
Il be honest, for the first 12 months as a member is was not impressed. I had my new shiny IoD membership card, access to the member portal and I knew a little bit about the events I ‘should’ be attending. But why wasn’t I impressed?
The turning point
I received my 12-month membership renewal reminder, and the first thought was to let it expire. I received a call from Hannah Dean from IoD Membership services at Pall Mall. I explained I was looking to let my membership expire, and she asked why. After discussions about the membership, the IoD and Hannah explaining what is included is dawned on me… I hadn’t used my membership! The following week after talking with Bill Carr from Carpe Diem in Warrington (Head of Cheshire’s Committee) and after hearing about more features that you get as an IoD member I re-signed up to give it another try.
Let’s try again!
Fast forward to today after giving the membership another try – I am amazed of the features and membership benefits that are given away to IoD members for FREE. I had heard of them, but until I tried them for myself I didn’t appreciate how useful they were.
What’s included with an IoD membership?
For a full list of membership services, you can visit the IoD website however below are the services I now take advantage of that makes the IoD membership invaluable to me and my business:
– Free hot desking in some amazing building’s in city’s like Manchester, Liverpool and the stunning Pall Mall in London
– Regus hot desking included at all of the Regus buildings nationwide.
– Networking – The IoD networking is networking with like minded directors, without the salesmen pushing their services at every chance they get.
– Director Training – Access to lots of personal development training
Let’s talk…
If you would like to talk more about the IoD, business or tech feel free to contact me or tweet @mikejdouglass
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