Join (or Create) a Mastermind Group

What is a Mastermind Group?

A mastermind group is a peer-to-peer mentoring and advice group used to help members solve their problems with input and advice from the other group members. Group members can then challenge each other to create and implement goals, brainstorm ideas and support each other.

Such groups can be particularly useful for small business owners and entrepreneurs. It can help participants feel like they are not alone, but instead, have a supportive group to help them thrive.

However, it can also work in a more corporate setting as well. They can be great sources of collaboration and inspiration for employees of larger companies, particularly when groups are comprised of individuals across diverse, non-competing companies.

Why should you join a Mastermind Group?

There are lots of great reasons to join a mastermind group. Mastermind groups can provide:

• peer-support;
• advice and collaboration opportunities;
• accountability;
• solutions and ideas from brainstorming with the group;
• an opportunity to expand your network;
• an opportunity to learn new things;
• a boost to your wellbeing;
• an opportunity to stretch your boundaries.

How to Find a Mastermind Group?

Think about what you want from a Mastermind Group to help you identify the type of Mastermind Group you might like to join.

Mastermind Groups come in many shapes and sizes (usually limited to a maximum of 10). It is important to find a group that works for you, has the right people and you have similar/shared interests.

Mastermind groups can meet in person, via phone/video conferencing or even online (such as through private Facebook groups, LinkedIn groups, etc). Meetings can be weekly or monthly, depending on the needs of the members.

Once you have identified what you would like out of a Mastermind Group you can then set about finding one.

You can join a pre-existing mastermind group (many of which are advertised online) or pay a reputable facilitator or coach to place you in one. Some networking groups also help members create their own mastermind groups within the membership.

Facebook and LinkedIn can be useful places to start researching which group to join or you can ask your network for suggestions, in particular, you should ask the executive coaches you know if they facilitate mastermind groups or know of any that might be looking for new members

Finally, if you can’t find an existing mastermind group, you can also seek out like-minded people to create your own.

How to Create Your Own Mastermind Group

If you are thinking of starting your own Mastermind Group, think about individuals you who you both like and respect and who might be interested in joining a group. They will need to be at a similar stage as you (and the others in the group), but with a non-competing business interest. Start by making a list of people you already know and whittling it down from there, or you can ask people you trust in your network for introductions. Keep it small (4-5 people), the smaller the group the more effective it can be.

Once you have your list schedule time to talk to those individuals to see if you connect with them, if your goals align and if a mastermind group would be of interest.

Once you have your group participants, schedule a regular time to meet that works for everyone and get started! Take it in turns to facilitate the meetings and drive everyone forward.

Then simply drive it forward on your collective energy and motivation and enjoy it!