By joining or attending as a guest, you agree to uphold these standards. These aren't just rules — they're the foundation of a community built on trust, respect, and genuine collaboration. We hold each other accountable because we care about each other's success.
THE DEN'S PHILOSOPHY
Success in The DEN stems from being a positive and supportive member. By practicing “Generosity Generates” and proactively “Investing in Other Members,” you activate a powerful cycle of mutual benefit of giving business that directly fuels your own success.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
Support our members in growing their business by providing a well-organized, encouraging, and professional referral network that fosters lasting, valuable connections with trusted business professionals.
CODE OF ETHICS FOR MEMBER
I am committed to delivering services at the agreed-upon prices with unwavering quality.
I will engage with all Members and their referrals with complete honesty and transparency.
I am dedicated to fostering relationships built on trust and goodwill within the network.
I accept full responsibility for proactively following up on every referral I receive.
I will consistently maintain a positive, supportive, and constructive attitude.
I pledge to uphold the highest ethical standards of my profession in all my actions.
BOARD STRUCTURE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
President
Vice-President
Secretary
Treasurer
Membership Committee (3)
MEMBER POLICIES
* Each Member can only hold one Job classification.
* Members must represent their primary professional focus.
* Members must arrive on time and stay for the entire published meeting time.
* Members are allowed three absences within a continuous six-month period. If a member cannot attend, they may send a substitute; this will not count as an absence.
* Members are expected to be engaged by bringing qualified “business visitors”.
* Visitors may attend “The DEN” meetings up to two times.
* Members who have completed consultation and review with our Membership Committee can do Feature Presentations during “The DEN” Meetings.
* Leaves of absence are possible for certain extenuating circumstances (e.g., extended medical issue that prevents members from working) at the discretion of the Membership Committee.
* Members who wish to change their Job classification must submit a new membership application for approval. No additional fees are due at this time.
* All membership lists are for giving referrals only. Before sending any marketing or business solicitation communications to members outside our network, the recipient must give their consent. Consent must be checked off on the Network membership application.
ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES
* There is no initial application fee. Annual Dues $100 + processing fees.
* Annual Membership fees are payable 30 days prior to the due date. Members not paid by the first day of the month they are due, are considered late and will be assessed a late charge. If fees are not paid within 15 days, the member will be officially dropped.
* Fees are non-refundable.
* Fees cannot be transferred from one person to another unless the fees are from the same company.
* The “DEN” has a strict policy on returned checks. A member has three working days to resolve the matter. Any returned checks not resolved within this period will be turned over to collections. All returned checks will be assessed a minimum $25 returned check fee. If a member passes a second NSF check, that member will be subject to immediate termination.
* The “DEN” reserves the right to discontinue a member’s participation in this program.
MEETING AGENDA
* Open Networking “Meet & Greet” Members, Visitors, and Guests.
* Welcome – Leadership Team Introductions
* Secretary’s Report- Take Attendance, Attendance record Count Highest and Lowest.
* Networking Education
* Announce The “DEN” “Network Leaders”
* Welcome any new (or renewing) “DEN” members to the organization (induct new members)
* Members introduce themselves when we have a new member, visitor, or guest.
* Members introduce their “Potential Member” to the group and why they think they would be an asset to our Network.
* Potential Member introduces themselves and about their company.
* Membership member weekly presentation including questions and answers.
* Vice President’s Report – Announcements and reminders, workshops, chamber meetings in the area, committee meetings, etc.
* President Thanks Visitors and potential members for coming and ask what has impressed them most about the meeting
* Membership Committee Report - Referral Count, Application Count future visitors, incoming guests, etc.
* President thanks visitors & invites them to a 2nd Visit.
* Door prize draw: for members bringing visitors or referrals
* Close meeting (and conduct new member orientation)
PROGRAM GUIDELINES
Absences and Tardiness
* Absences and tardiness mean less business for members; therefore, the Membership Committee may give warnings to members who are consistently late or leave early. If the problem continues, the member’s classification may be subject to being re-opened.
Substitute program
* Potential substitutes include customers, friends, family, and/or employee.
* The primary purpose of a substitute is to represent a “DEN” Member.
* Membership Committee should alert the Secretary of a substitute so that the “DEN” member does not count as absent.
Business Representation
* Members agree only to represent the business classification approved by the Membership Committee.
* Members of The “DEN” should represent their products and services and not the business opportunity element of their business.
Example:
What is ALLOWED: A member who represents a nutrition company should talk about the benefits of their vitamins and protein powders. They should ask for referrals for people who want to buy those products.
What is NOT ALLOWED: That same member should not talk about how others can "become their own boss," "start a business from home," or "build a residual income stream" by joining their sales team. They cannot pass out brochures about the compensation plan or hold meetings to recruit “DEN” members.
“You are here as a product salesperson, not a recruiter. We will refer customers to you to buy your products, but we are not leads for your down- line."
NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
The Membership Committee will review and select persons for membership in all job classifications based on qualifications without regard to race, color, gender, religion, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, age, or disability. The “DEN” and it’s members will NOT support the committee or person(s) on the committee or members when found in violation of this non-discrimination statement.
WHAT DO I GET FOR MY MONEY
The "DEN" is led by a team of experienced professionals who work relentlessly to maximize the value members receive from their investments in time, effort, and money.
MEMBERSHIP FEES CAN PROVIDE
* The potential for more opportunity for a substantial increase in new business through referrals.
* Education on "Up-to-date insights" into emerging industry trends that support the expansion and efficiency of one’s own business.
* Hands-on training by public speaking and strategies for marketing oneself and their product/service.
* Exclusive business connections that can evolve into lasting partnerships.
FEES COLLECTED ALSO HELP PROVIDE
Expenses such as Printed Marketing materials, Website Building and hosting, Domain Name, computer software, advertising, and promotional materials.
MAKING CONNECTIONS BY REFERRALS
A referral provides the chance to connect with someone actively looking for what you offer. While it may not always result in an immediate sale, it creates an open invitation to share your business with a genuinely interested prospect. Every member brings with them a wide circle of contacts, making "The DEN" network a powerful source of new opportunities.
WHY IS THE "DEN" A GOOD VALUE
Most professionals invest in advertising, and we would never say stop. That said, consider weighing the benefits of traditional advertising against referral-based marketing. Advertising has value, but referrals can deliver even more. With "The DEN", it’s as if you’ve got a sales force of 20+ people working for you nonstop.
MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE DUTIES
The membership committee is typically responsible for overseeing the process of recruiting, retaining, and engaging members within our organization. Their specific duties can vary , but generally, they include:
Recruitment of New Members
* Developing strategies and programs to attract new members to the organization.
* Organizing events, campaigns, or outreach efforts to promote membership.
* Reviewing and approving new membership applications.
Retention of Current Members
* Implementing strategies to keep current members engaged and satisfied.
* Identifying and addressing member needs and concerns to increase retention.
* Planning and promoting benefits for members to make sure they feel valued.
Member Engagement
* Creating opportunities for members to participate in activities, events, and committees.
* Encouraging members to take on leadership roles or volunteer within the organization.
* Gathering feedback from members to improve the member experience.
Membership Management
* Keeping track of member records, including dues, contact information, and membership status.
* Ensuring that membership renewals are processed on time.
* Communicating regularly with members about updates, events, and benefits.
Developing Membership Policies
* Establishing guidelines for membership eligibility and benefits.
* Reviewing and updating membership policies, fees, and other organizational standards.
* Ensuring fairness and transparency in membership processes.
Promoting the Organization
* Representing the organization's mission and values in outreach and marketing efforts.
* Identifying potential partners or sponsors that could help grow the membership base.
In short, the membership committee plays a critical role in growing and maintaining the organization’s membership base while ensuring members feel engaged, valued, and connected.
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