FAQ - Mastermind Groups
- If I join a mastermind group, what’s the first thing we’ll work on?
- Who could be in my group?
- What if a group member is obnoxious or just doesn’t fit?
- How does a meeting run?
- Why should I pay you when I can create a group for free?
- I want to get started! When will a new group be forming?
- What if I can’t make all the meetings?
- I know a group of people, I want to create a group with you & them, what do I do?
If I join a mastermind group, what’s the first thing we’ll work on?
Agreement on a group purpose- what you’re trying to accomplish is the first thing the group will address. Some groups may be very focused, for example, their purpose is to support each other in doubling their practice billings in a specific time period. Other groups may address a broader management topic, such as how to become more profitable. Getting clear on the group purpose will help ensure the group stays focused and doesn’t get off track unless they choose to. Over time, purpose may change, in a new group, it’s a good idea to be very clear on the purpose of all the time you’ll spend together.
Group members will also introduce themselves and describe their practices and individual goals. Trust is an essential ingredient for a mastermind group, so you’ll get to know each other and we’ll validate that the group is the right one for you.
Return to main FAQ.
Who could be in my group?
The application and interview process is aimed at understanding your experience level and objectives, so that you can be placed in a group that makes sense for you. Additionally, we’ll check-in with you re competitors to ensure that you’re never in a group with a direct competitor. Other than that, practice areas and locations may differ. Everyone in your group will be a lawyer.
Return to main FAQ.
What if a group member is obnoxious or just doesn’t fit?
First, the application process is in place to prevent this. However, that’s why we also establish clear guidelines in the group. In addition to meeting time, frequency and attendance, we’ll also create guidelines around how members treat each other. We’ll talk about how to use the group’s time and be sure that no one dominates. We’ll establish that people offer ideas and solutions, but they don’t tell each other what to do. Guidelines are a great tool the group will use to manage itself and its members.
If there is a problem, and the group can’t handle it or doesn’t want to, Barbara will. After observing problem behavior, she’ll talk offline with the person involved. If coaching doesn’t solve the problem, then the member would be asked to leave the group. Please note, this hasn’t happened in any group Barbara’s led or been in. Hopefully it will never happen in a group you are in!
Return to main FAQ.
How does a meeting run?
Each mastermind group has its preferences around the frequency they meet, the length of each meeting, and the agenda. In general, there will be a one-by-one update scheduled for a specific time block where you talk about what’s happened and what challenges you face. After that, a group might choose to focus on an issue the group shares, on a recommended resource, or on one member’s situation in detail.
Many times a new group will go through each of their situations in detail, person by person, until everyone has a chance to use the group’s time to address their individual objectives and issues. Once that cycle is completed, the group can reconfigure the meetings. And, at any meeting, if you want point-in-time help regarding a particular situation, the group can agree and change the agenda appropriately.
The only rule is that if a meeting format isn’t working, it must be changed! Barbara will facilitate the group’s discussion around how they want to work together, and she’ll suggest an initial format based on the applications.
Right now, you’re offering a special fee, after that what do you charge?
The mastermind fee will go from the special rate of $75 to a rate of $125 after the introductory three month period. By then, the group will either value the service at that level, or they are completely free to leave and manage the group on their own. No hassle.
Return to main FAQ.
Why should I pay you when I can create a group for free?
If you WILL create a group, then maybe you shouldn’t. As always, the rocket science is in the doing, finding what to do is easy.
If you’re willing to do the groundwork to get the group on track, if you’re going to deal with problems and lead the group- then you shouldn’t. Barbara makes it easy and she brings additional practice management and coaching skills to the table. Barbara is a lawyer’s coach by profession; it’s her full-time job. If that’s not valuable to you, you don’t need Barbara. There are a wealth of books and seminars on how to start and run a mastermind group.
Return to main FAQ.
I want to get started! When will a new group be forming?
Complete an application and Barbara will get back to you with an estimated timeframe, depending on the applications she’s received. You can also watch the Successfully Solo blog and newsletter for announcements. If you are averse to completing an application until you’re ready to make a commitment- email Barbara.
Return to main FAQ.
What if I can’t make all the meetings?
There will be guidelines with expectations for attendance. If the group agrees, meetings can also be recorded and made available in mp3 format. One of the reasons a group of 6 or so works is because someone will miss every now and then, but the group isn’t really affected. And, if attendance is an issue, the group will reevaluate the meeting times.
Return to main FAQ.
I know a group of people, I want to create a group with you & them, what do I do?
Make Barbara’s month, give her a call or shoot an email. If a group of 6 people show up together, the special offer will be in place for a full 6 months, which is a savings of $200 to each group member.
Return to main FAQ.