FAQ
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Q.1 Who, What, When Where and Why did Leads Club begin?
Leads Club was founded in 1978 in Orange County, California, by Ali Lassen, a successful entrepreneur and business woman. Based on a trademarked system she developed of timed repetition of information, business promotion and personal referrals, Leads Club began as a way for women business owners and managers to build their own professional networks. In 1984, Leads Club expanded to include men and women. Today there are hundreds of Leads Club Chapters throughout the United States and in Australia, and South America. Leads Club staff associates specializing in Member services and new Chapter development work at the Leads Club International Headquarters in Carlsbad, CA. They also support Executive Directors, Regional and Chapter Consultants who manage Leads Club regions throughout the United States and around the world.Q.2 What is the purpose of Leads Club?
The purpose of Leads Club is to assist you in getting good business referrals that will expand your business success. Leads Club is dedicated to maximizing the use of your time and resources to get good business referrals. To accomplish this goal, Leads Club uses a method of spaced, timed, repetition of information. Leads Club is not in competition with other group or clubs, nor are we a social club. We are an advertising service dedicated to increasing Members' business success.Q.3 How often does a Leads Club Chapter meet and what is the length of each meeting?
Leads Club Chapters meet once a week, at breakfast or lunch, traditionally on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. The meeting time is one hour and 15 minutes (75 minutes). Leads Club Chapters meet up to 50 weeks a year. Chapters generally take off the weeks over the December holidays. Chapters generally do not meet when a national holiday falls on their meeting day, for example, Thursday Chapters do not meet on Thanksgiving (USA).Q.4 How is my business promoted at each meeting?
Each Member gives two 30 second promotionals, one at the beginning and one at the end of each meeting. Members are also scheduled, on a rotational basis, to give an in-depth, 10 minute presentation at least five times per year (the total number of 10 minute presentations you give each year depends on the size of your Chapter).
Q.5 What is the maximum number of Members in a Chapter?
Leads Clubs welcomes a maximum of thirty members in a Chapter. This assures every Member sufficient promotional time to build their business.
Q.6 How many Leads Clubs can I be a Member of at the same time?
Only one. This helps assure the Chapter that every Member can create relationships with their fellow Members making it much easier to find leads for the Chapter Members.
Q.7 How many Members can a Leads Club have for each business category?
Only one. This allows Leads Club to provide exclusive category representation, one Member, one category.
Q.8 How many business categories can a Leads Club Member represent?
Only one. Leads Club provides exclusive category representation to it's Members, they promote one business. This leaves categories open to expand the Chapter Membership.
Q.9 What kind of businesses belong to Leads Club? How do I know if my business is a good fit for Leads Club?
Leads Club Members come from all kinds of and sizes of business. If your business uses referrals for marketing, then Leads Clubs are right for you.
Q.10 If a business category is not represented by any Member of my Chapter, can I represent that category as part of my business?
Representing multiple categories is not appropriate. It hinders the growth of your Chapter because Members are not likely to bring in visitors if they think they are crossing your category. In addition, it will reduce your access to qualified leads because the Members may be confused about what you really do.
Q.11 My business sells products and services that cover more than one category can I represent those products and services?
Many businesses provide products and services that cover more than one business category or that fall outside of their core business. The result is you may have products and services that cross with another Members or an un-represented category. When you join Leads Club you select the business category that best represents your core business or the part of your business you want to promote and grow with Leads Club. Promoting only your core business to your Leads Club Members does not prevent or preclude you from selling all your products and services to the clients referred to you by your fellow Leads Club Members, outside of the Leads Club meeting.
Q.12 Can I change business categories?
Yes. If you change professions, or change the focus of your current business you may change categories within your current Chapter, if that category is open. Keep in mind that when you change categories, you may no longer represent your old category and your old category becomes available for any new or existing Member. You may also experience a period of time where you do not receive Leads as the Members need time to acquaint themselves to your new focus.
Q.13 Who must approve my change in category?
The change must be approved by the Leadership Team and your Regional office.
Q.14 Is there a charge to change categories?
No, there isn't a charge to change categories, but you will need to submit a new application.
Q.15 How long will it take to get my first lead?
There are many variables, what kind of business you have and how broad is the appeal of your category? Are you selling a product or service that people need or want every day, once a week, once a month, once a year or once every 2 to 10 years? How much do I have to know about you and what you do to give you a qualified lead?
Leads Club is not just about getting leads, it is also about giving Leads. Passing leads to your fellow Chapter Members is an integral part of the referral process. Passing leads demonstrates your commitment to the process and enhances your opportunity to receive Leads. Like any advertising media we suggest you give Leads Club six months to a year to impact your business.
Q.16 How much does it cost to belong to Leads Club?
There is a one-time $99 registration fee and a $33 per month Membership fee. Fees are due and payable at the first meeting of each month. You will be accessed a late charge of $10, for fees paid after the first meeting of the month. You can reduce the total cost of your Membership by paying fees quarterly, semi-annually or annually.
Q.17 How do I pay my fees?
Fees must be paid to the Recorder at the first meeting of each month, or paid online before the first meeting of each month.
Fees paid, monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually may be paid by Check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express. Fees may also be paid online at www.leadsclub.com. A copy of the e-mailed payment receipt must be given to your Recorder so they can update their charts.Q.18 Am I required to pay my fee's quarterly, semi-annually or annually?
No, but if you do pay quarterly, semi-annually or annually, you'll save some money. You can pay monthly payments of $30. Or, you can pay quarterly for $87, which saves you $12 per year. Two semi annual payments of $168 saves you $24 per year. Lastly, one annual payment of $336 saves $24 per year.
Q.19 If I leave, or am dropped, from Leads Club will my unused fees be refunded?
All fees are non-refundable; according to the terms of the Member application/agreement you signed when you joined Leads Club, so there would not be a refund extended.
Q.20 Is there an annual renewal fee?
No, there isn't a fee to renew your membership. You only pay your fees monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually.
Q.21 I don't eat breakfast/lunch, do I still have to pay for a meal?
It depends upon the Chapter. Most Chapters pay the restaurant for each person in attendance. Even if it's not mandatory to pay for breakfast, it's a nice courtesy to the restaurant for those who don't hold the Chapter to a head count. After all, they are depending upon the Leads Club Chapter's business in exchange for a place to hold the meeting.
Q.22 Can you tell me all of the Leads Club Fee's?
- One-time Registration Fee $95.
- Monthly Fee $30 (Paid by a recurring option only.
- Fee's may be paid quarterly, semi-annually or annually).
- Late Fee $5 (on fee's paid after the first meeting of each month).
- Advertising Fee $5 (paid by a visitor who wants to participate in 30 second promotionals and receive a visitor pack).
- Returned Check Fee $25.
Q.23 Does Leads Club fine Member?
- Never. We don't find that productive when we are working hard to establish business relationships between Chapter Members.
Q.24 Where do my fees go?
Your fee's provide you with exclusive category representation
within your Chapter and help support your Chapter. Leads Club provides the process, tools, resources, administrative and support services required to help you and your Chapter Members, generate quality referrals and business for each other. Your fees pay for the supplies you use each week in your meeting, training and communicating with the Membership and Leadership Team as well as the Chapter Consultants, Regional Office and International Office that supports our Chapter.Q.25 What is Alumni Status?
When you leave your Chapter as a Member in good standing, (fees current and 12 absences or less). Alumni status enables you to join another Chapter (six month wait required) or rejoin your current Chapter (six month wait required) by paying the re-join fee of $75.
Q.26 When do I become an Alumni Member of Leads Club?
- Alumni Member status is maintained indefinitely as long as you left as an active Member in good standing (fees current and 12 absences or less) after 12 months.
- Alumni Member status is not granted if you are dropped from Leads Club for unpaid fees, excessive absences, returned checks or if you are dropped from Leads Club for failure to adhere to the terms of the Member application/agreement.
- Alumni Member status is lost if you are dropped from Leads Club for activities adversely affecting the Chapter dynamics.
Q.27 Can I be dropped from Leads Club?
Yes, you can be asked to forfeit your Membership to Leads Club for the following reasons:- For failure to pay your fees at the first meeting of the month or fees and late charge by the second meeting of the month. (You are delinquent after the second meeting of the month.)
- For failure to adhere to the terms of the Member application/agreement.
- For exceeding 12 absences in any 12 month period.
- For representing or promoting anything other than the business category listed on your Member Application/Agreement.
- For unethical business practices.
- For activities that adversely affect the Chapter dynamics.
Q.28 If I leave Leads Club can I rejoin in the future?
- If you drop from your Leads Club Chapter in good standing (with your fees current and 12 absences or less) you may be eligible to rejoin a Leads Club Chapter after a six month waiting period.
- Applications for Members wishing to rejoin a Leads Club Chapter must be reviewed and approved by the Regional office.
- Members who have left in good standing will be required to pay the full registration fee to rejoin.
Q.29 Why do I have to pay a $5.00 Late Fee, if I pay my fees after the first meeting of the month?
Leads Club fees for all Leads Club Chapters are processed at the Leads Club International Headquarters in Carlsbad, CA. This office is geared up to process fee payments during the first 10 business days of each month. The $5.00 late fee covers the cost of the exception processing required to process and input your late payment after the 10th business day of the month.Q.30 If I leave Leads Club can my Membership be transferred to someone else?
Leads Club Membership is for individuals and may not be sold or transferred to another individual. If you wish to have someone take your place when you leave your club, that individual must go through the standard application process and pay the registration fee.Q.31 Can my company pay my fees?
Yes, fees may be paid on or before the due date with a company check or credit card. However, if your company will only reimburse your fees, you must pay your fees and then ask to be reimbursed by your company.Q.32 If my company pays my fees, does my company own my Membership?
A Leads Club Membership is issued to an individual not a company. The person who completes and signs the Membership Application is the Member of record.Q.33 What is the Leadership Team?
The Leadership team consists of three Chapter Members, selected by the previous Chapter Director, to host and facilitate weekly Chapter meetings. The positions are, Director, Assistant Director and Recorder.Q.34 What is the length of service of a Chapter's Leadership Team?
Usually six months, depending on the Team Member's start time.Q.35 Am I required to serve on my Chapter Leadership Team?
No, but serving on the Leadership Team is a positive experience that improves your standing and recognition among the Members of your Chapter and your understanding of Leads Club. It's also a great opportunity to hone your leadership skills.Q.36 What kind of time commitment is required to serve on the Chapter's Leadership Team?
You must arrive at least 15 minutes before the start of each meeting. This will give you time prepare for the meeting with the Team and greet visitors who often arrive early. You should also be prepared to remain up to 15 minutes after the meeting to review the meeting with your team and speak with visitors or Members. Maintaining the Chapter's paperwork, taking prospective Members phone calls and communicating with the Regional office may require additional time outside of the Chapter meeting. Maximum time spent on Leads activities is dependent on the size of your Chapter and your dedication to it's success.Q.37 Do I need any training to serve on my Chapters Leadership Team?
Yes, Leadership Team training is mandatory and must be completed before the start of your term. Each Region may hold trainings at different times of the year. This gives you a full opportunity to learn about the leadership position you'll be filling, giving you the information you'll need to have a great leadership experience.Q.38 I have served on a Leadership Team before, do I still have to attend training?
Yes, Leads Club is a dynamic and growing organization. Every training session offers new information, ideas and materials to help you run, improve and grow your Chapter. Individual training teaches you the roles and responsibilities for your assigned position. Group training helps you understand the dynamics of a Leads Club Chapter, the role and responsibilities of your team mates, takes you through a typical meeting and provides time and guidance for goal setting. Additionally, these orientation sessions are great networking opportunities for your business.
Q.39 How much time is designated for the passing of leads at a meeting?
Ten minutes for exchanging leads. This includes brief information on how they were obtained, (this may help other Members obtain leads for the Member) recognition and thanks for past leads, and updates on the progress of pending leads or results of previous leads.
Q.40 How long should each in-depth presentation be and how many presenters should a Chapter have at a meeting?
Ten minutes for each presentation and three presentations by Members at each meeting. You may wish to plan an eight (8) minute presentation with two (2) minutes for questions.
Q.41 As an active Leads Club Member, can I visit another Leads Club Chapter?
While we wish we could allow this, it would undermine Leads Club's ability to guarantee a non-competitive atmosphere and Chapter growth potential.
Q.42 Can I bring a visitor to my Chapter?
Yes. Introducing a visitor to Leads Club is the best way to grow your Chapter and your business. You are encouraged to bring visitors from businesses not currently represented in your Chapter. There is a $5.00 advertising fee. The $5.00 advertising fee entitles your visitor to give two 30 second promotionals, hand out their business cards and receive a Visitor Pack with information about joining Leads Club and your Chapter.
Q.43 What if my visitor's category is already represented in the Chapter?
If the visitors category is currently represented in the Chapter the visitor may come in as a "Silent Visitor". The Silent Visitor does not pay the $5.00 advertising fee, does not participate in promotionals, hand out their business cards or receive a complete visitor pack. The visitor may only observe the meeting activity. The host should introduce the visitor explain that the visitor is just there to observe your Leads Club meeting. The visitor should be given a Leads Club brochure and should be advised to contact their Regional office or Leads Club International Headquarters at (800) 783-3761 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (800) 783-3761 end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (800) 783-3761 end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (800) 783-3761 end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (800) 783-3761 end_of_the_skype_highlighting to locate a Chapter with an opening for their category.
Q.44 How many times can the same visitor visit?
- A visitor may visit the same Leads Club Chapter twice. The $5.00 advertising fee must be paid on each visit.
(or)
- A visitor may visit two different Leads Club Chapters once. The $5.00 advertising fee must be paid on each visit.
Q.45 Do I have to visit an active Chapter before I join Leads Club?
No, but we think it's an excellent idea. Visiting a Chapter will give you the opportunity to view the process as well as the Members of the Chapter you are thinking about joining.
Q.46 What is the maximum number of absences allowed during any 12 month period?
Leads Club knows that sometimes missing a meeting is unavoidable. To insure that you get the most out of your Leads Club Membership it is important to attend the meetings. The more meetings you attend, the better your Chapter Members get to know you and your business. The better we know you and your business, the more opportunity we have to pass you quality leads.
- Members are permitted 12 absences in a 12-month period. These 12 absences are used by Members for personal and business reasons. No additional absences will be granted. You will forfeit your Membership to Leads Club on your 13th absence.
- A Sabbatical is available for serious personal illness or injury or activities adversely affecting the Chapter dynamics. A Sabbatical can only be approved by the Regional office.
Q.47 What is an Incomplete Meeting Attendance?
Members are recorded absent when they arrive 15 minutes or later, or leave 15 minutes or earlier. Additionally, if the 30 second promotionals have already been started, a member elects to forgo the first round of 30 second promotionals due to their late arrival.
Q.48 What is an agent for a Member, and will sending an agent avoid an absence?
An agent is a representative of a Member who is unable to attend. Sending an agent ensures that you are represented at the meeting, by giving promotionals, passing and receiving leads, however sending an agent is recorded as an absence for the Member. A Member may not act as an agent for another Chapter Member.
Q.49 What is a Sabbatical?
A sabbatical is given for up to 3-months of non-attendance. It is approved by the Regional office for serious personal illness or injury or activities adversely affecting the Chapter dynamics. Leads Club Chapter Members on an approved sabbatical must keep their fees current. Payment of fees during a sabbatical holds the position and category for you. Non payment of fees will result in you being dropped from your Chapter. A Sabbatical can only be approved by the Regional office.
Q.50 Can I visit my Chapter while I am on Sabbatical?
Yes, Members on sabbatical may attend Chapter meetings:
- Participating in 30 second promotionals and leads passing.
- Attending a meeting will not extend your sabbatical and does not erase accrued absences.
Q.51 When is a Local Transfer permitted?
Transfers must be reviewed and approved by the Regional office prior to discussing the transfer with the current Chapter or transfer Chapter. Transfers are only permitted under certain circumstances:
- When a Member changes careers and that category is filled in the Chapter.
- When a Member moves more than a 25 mile commute to their current Chapter.
- Members wishing to join another Chapter for any other reason, must relinquish their Membership in good standing and wait six months before applying for Membership another Chapter.
Q.52 Is there a charge to transfer?
No. However, you must complete a new application at your new Chapter.
Q.53 As a Member can I link my business or website to the Leads Club website?
Yes. Current and active Leads Club Members may link to Leads Club, and provide a reciprocal link on their website, on the Member Links page for a nominal fee of $25. However, if a member elects to pay their semi-annual dues, a free link is offered as part of the benefit of making a six month commitment to Leads Club.
