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OUTLeads Guidelines

Purpose

Seattle OUTLeads is a networking group for LGBTQIA+ and Allied business owners and representatives seeking to build long-term relationships with professionals, clients, and community partners. Our goal is simple: generate business for fellow members by sharing qualified leads and referrals, and they’ll do the same for you. Only one representative per industry is allowed, keeping business activity within the group.

 

Membership

Membership is based on you, your business or company, and the services or products you provide. If you switch to a new company or industry, you can remain in the group as long as it doesn’t conflict with an existing member's category.

 

Membership is by invitation only and approved by the leadership team. Only one representative per industry is allowed. Members are expected to attend meetings and avoid overlaps in business categories.

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Conduct business professionally and ethically. If conflicts arise between members, resolve them privately. If necessary, contact leadership, but refrain from involving the entire group or making public complaints.

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Members must support leadership decisions. Failure to follow guidelines may result in termination of membership.

 

Each member is listed on the group’s homepage with a logo, category, and company description. Members can also participate in a community forum for posting topics and discussions.

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Business Listing Guidelines:

  • Bio text: Maximum 450 characters, including spaces.

  • Listed by category (approved by leadership) in alphabetical order.

  • Each listing includes a live link to your website.

  • Artwork specs: 2x2 inches (144 px by 144 px), PNG or JPEG, minimum 72 dpi.​
     

Send artwork to Jerome Bader at jerome@blueguardrail.com or call 206.478.4645 with questions.

 

Dues and Expenses

Members pay $150 annually to cover refreshments, website hosting, marketing, and administrative costs.

 

Prospective Members

Prospective members can contact leadership for an invitation or be invited by a current member. Before inviting someone, ensure their industry isn’t already represented, explain the group’s purpose and guidelines, and review their website to ensure they are a good fit.

 

Attendance

Consistent attendance is vital for effective networking. Members are allowed one absence per quarter, but substitutes or guests can attend in their place. Excessive absences may result in losing your category.

Quarter breakdown:

  • Q1: January-March

  • Q2: April-June

  • Q3: July-September

  • Q4: October-December

 

Meeting Guidelines

Meetings are held virtually via Zoom on the first and third Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Stay for the entire meeting, follow the agenda, and stay engaged.

 

Virtual Meeting Tips:

  • Prepare a 1-2 minute business commercial.

  • Have links, social media, and contact information ready to share.

  • Stick to your allotted time and know your target audience.

  • Prepare leads and prospect lists in advance.

  • Maintain a positive attitude and focus.

 

In-Person Meeting Tips:

  • Bring 25 business cards and materials for distribution.

  • Prepare a 30-60 second business commercial.

  • Bring written lists of leads and prospects.

  • Stay focused, positive, and ready to engage.

 

Good Leads

A good lead is someone interested in a product or service represented in the group that you can provide.

 

Referrals

Members are expected to actively generate referrals for each other, as this drives our network’s success. Track referrals and provide progress updates during meetings.

 

One-on-One Meetings

Building relationships through one-on-one meetings is key to generating quality leads and referrals. Getting to know each other’s business and services is crucial for effective networking.

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