What is a leads group?
A plain guide to leads groups and referral groups: what they are, how they work, what makes one produce, and how NexGen runs them.
The short answer
A leads group is a group of local business owners who meet on a regular schedule to pass each other business. Most hold one seat per trade, so the plumber never competes with another plumber in the room. You might also hear them called referral groups, business networking groups or tip clubs.
How a typical leads group works
Members meet weekly or monthly. Each person shares what they do and who they want to meet, members pass referrals, and the group tracks what was given and what closed. Many groups ask members to attend consistently and to give referrals regularly, because a group only works if everyone takes part.
What makes a leads group actually produce
- The right mix of trades. Members who serve the same customers at different moments refer to each other naturally.
- Specific asks. "Introduce me to the office manager at a dental practice" beats "anyone who needs my service."
- Consistency. Trust builds when the same people show up week after week.
- Follow-up. Referrals that are thanked and reported on keep coming.
- Permission. An introduction the customer agreed to is worth ten cold names.
How NexGen runs leads groups
We kept what works and rebuilt the rest around smart tech. Members write trigger moments instead of reciting a speech. The system suggests a Power Pair based on shared customers. Free tools like the Idea Machine and Who Do I Know keep leads moving between meetings. The weekly exchange runs 45 minutes online, with an optional in-person meetup once a month. And there are no dues.
Find a group
NexGen groups are forming in Denver Metro, Colorado Springs and Fort Collins. Elsewhere, you can claim your state or start a group.
Questions people ask
What is a leads group?
A leads group is a small group of local business owners, usually one per trade, who meet regularly to pass each other referrals. It is also called a referral group or a business networking group.
What is the difference between a lead and a referral?
A lead is a name. A referral is a person who knows you are going to reach out and expects your call. Good groups focus on referrals.
How do I choose a leads group?
Visit as a guest, check that your trade's seat is open, ask how often members pass real referrals, and pick a group whose members serve the same customers you do.
Are there free leads groups?
Yes. NexGen Lead Groups are free and donation based, with groups forming in Denver Metro, Colorado Springs and Fort Collins.