Print this chapterPrint this chapter

Before You Join

4. Finding the Right Club for You

If you're in an area where there are several clubs available to you, you may be wondering how to pick from them. Here's some ways to narrow it down.

  • First & foremost: Is the club in a place and meeting at a time you can consistently go? A 7am club that's next door might sound feasible, until you find you can't be bothered to wake up that early to get to it. A club with a good meeting time that's too far to get to isn't any good either. If the club has eligibility requirements (common to corporate clubs), that may rule it out as well.
  • Meets at least three times a month: A weekly meeting schedule is best, but if the club meets three times a month, this is good too. Advanced clubs usually only meet one or two times a month, however.
  • Is aiming to be distinguished or has a history of doing so: This shows the club generates results. If you're in it to be a RDG member, that's what you're after too. This is usually noted on the club's website.
  • Is the club's website updated, or at least, look decent? It should, at minimum, indicate upcoming meetings.

Try to isolate down to 3-5 clubs that are viable, and visit them. You will likely want to call ahead to verify they're having a meeting, especially near or on holidays. Note the following:

  • Was there a guestbook or some way of capturing your contact information?
  • Did the club do any follow up after you visit?
  • Does the club have the hallmarks of a RDG club (or trying to get there): "RDG" is not an official designation, but if you like what these courses teach, it's in your interest to find a club that hits a good selection of criteria. You can always point the club officers to this material.
  • Are there too many people (over 35 is a decent number)? A rare find, but does happen. This will reduce your participation time.
  • Are there not enough people? If the club is at 6 people or less and no one is trying to resuscitate the club, stay away. On the upside, you can almost always get more speaking time at clubs with lower membership counts.