Quote:Every organization has many sales pitches to make to prospective members.


And, I don't believe that form of favor is any different than any other organization with a strong network.


Fraternities, alumni networks, professional organizations, clubs, etc... even simply friendships... many people or groups can and do pull strings for one another (IF the person needing a favor is worth their salt.)


But, nobody smart is going to prop someone that's going to embarrass them. No one puts their reputation on the line by recommending someone that's going to reflect poorly regardless of ties or affiliation.


Like someone said before, it's not really secret, it just has secrets.


As far as life changing "secrets" or advice, I don't think there really are secrets. Most good advice is out there already, you just have to have the sense or guidance to know what to look for or who to listen to.


IMO, one such example is Dave Ramsey and his financial advice. Not everyone will accept it as it certainly doesn't fit everyone's lifestyle. But it has proven to work, and it's not any big secret to what his principles are. But, even though you can find his plan online and listen to his advice free, he still makes a lot of money coaching and encouraging people who may need guidance in executing his plan. Which, is where some of these organizations can help. It's much easier sometimes to write out any plan than to actually execute it or apply it to your specific set of circumstances.


So really - you can network without being part of some of these groups. But it certainly can help to be a part of them sometimes to grow your network, particularly if you aren't good at building one all on your own.

I hear you. The Ramsey bit is spot on. I'm appointed with a firm that specializes in his basic ideas and people need a lot of help implementing relatively basic principles.


I doubt there's anything THAT amazing that would be of benefit. Sure it might help you network and get an interview, but being a Mason isn't going to make me a CEO.

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