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Today we’d like to introduce you to Rick Gutierrez & Emily Galindo. They and their team shared their story with us below:
The Next Level of Business is Just Beyond the Horizon

Do you ever feel like the next level of your business, or phase of your life, is just beyond the horizon, just within grasp? This is a feeling a lot of people have when striving for that next promotion, that next opportunity, that next thing that you’ve been working towards all these years in your craft. This is certainly something both Rick and Emily have felt over the years in business, life, and networking.

For the past 7 years, Rick and Emily have learned and grown both personally and professionally. They have engaged in leadership seminars, conferences, and personal and professional development in our fields of digital and print marketing. They have also evolved tremendously in the way of referral marketing. They have dedicated countless hours, coffees, lunches, ribbon cuttings, and happy hours, building a network and creating relationships with exceptional professionals in the community. All for the love of helping others while also helping themselves. Of course, we all get into networking to build our own business, but why not do it while also helping someone else? Who doesn’t love getting help? Big secret….it feels better to give.

At the time, they did it all to build their separate marketing businesses, Emily in digital and Rick in print. Somewhere along the way, that focus shifted from building their own business to building everyone around us, as well as theirs. This was an incredibly fulfilling time for both Emily and Rick. Through their years in the networking scene in Houston, they came across a national networking organization. This organization was a game changer for both of us and changed our trajectory in business and life. For years, they were just members, working the effective system they teach. They consumed all the knowledge and skills they use today. This organization provided them with everything from professional development to an entire personal community of life-long friends. Emily was fortunate enough to serve as the Regional Director for Houston for 2 years as well as consulting and managing other regions in the country. Rick came on to the Houston team at the same time coaching members and for four years, started new chapters across the country, including the first three Spanish-speaking chapters in the country, right here in Houston. The time we served with the other organization was an incredible experience.
While their experience in the organization was incredible. Rick and Emily see a vision of a next-level networking organization. Rick and Emily have always appreciated that organization, and they also believe that referral marketing can be a next-level experience. They have always seen a vision of exceptional top-notch business professionals who can come together with the same intent and purpose to all who want to be at the next level. An environment where development is desired, collaboration is required, and progress is welcomed. Rick and Emily see communities of professionals in all industries wanting to work together to help each other overcome obstacles, engaging in economic discussions and how they impact the markets, technological innovations, and how to utilize them for an advantage. An environment where feedback is given and received with the understanding that it’s all to help.

This is why Rick and Emily have partnered to create Next Level Business Powered by NIA (Network in Action). They found that the NIA opportunity had the framework and flexibility to create the vision they have. These are some of the things that we believe the type of business professionals we envision in our groups would appreciate:

Monthly Meetings: They meet monthly, putting more responsibility on our members to build relationships efficiently. This attracts those who value their time and are go-getters by nature. We facilitate discussions, education, and networking.

Education and Training: Next Level NIA offers monthly education and training sessions from national speakers and subject matter experts. You can choose to attend sessions that interest you, making each meeting highly relevant.

No Volunteer Positions: With Next Level NIA as your dedicated Business Advocates, we manage the group, and you can focus solely on building relationships.

ROI Guarantee: Next Level NIA provides an ROI guarantee, giving you the confidence to invest with no risk as long as you actively participate.

At Next Level Business Powered by NIA, they fine-tuned the networking experience to be more creative and effective. If this vision aligns with you and you want to go to the next level in your business, please join the Next Level NIA monthly meeting to meet some of the other exceptional professionals and experience the next level difference. Next Level Business Powered by NIA—“Redefining Business Networking.”

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

Launching Next Level NIA has been an exciting journey filled with growth and new opportunities. However, like any significant endeavor, it hasn’t been without its challenges. Here are some of the struggles that Rick and Emily encountered along the way:
1. Navigating the Vision Shift:
Shifting from a focus on building individual marketing businesses to creating a collective vision for Next Level NIA required careful navigation. Clarifying this new vision and aligning it with the values and goals of both partners took time and thoughtful consideration.
2. Building and Maintaining Networks:
While Rick and Emily had already established themselves in their respective networks, building and maintaining a new network specifically for Next Level NIA posed its own set of challenges. This involved reaching out to professionals, conveying the unique value proposition, and fostering engagement within the community.
3. Adapting to a New Framework:
Implementing the Next Level NIA framework and ensuring it seamlessly aligns with the envisioned experience for Next Level NIA demanded adaptability. Integrating monthly meetings and education sessions and guaranteeing ROI required meticulous planning and execution to create a smooth and effective operational structure.
4. Communicating the Next-Level Difference:
Effectively communicating the distinctive features and benefits of Next Level NIA to potential members and partners presented a communications challenge. Articulating how this networking experience differs from others in the industry and emphasizing the commitment to professional development and collaboration required a strategic approach.
5. Balancing Individual and Collective Goals:
Striking a balance between individual goals and the collective vision of Next Level NIA was a continuous effort. Ensuring that each member’s objectives were met while fostering a collaborative environment that benefits everyone required ongoing attention and refinement.
6. Adopting a New Organizational Role:
Shifting from active roles within another networking organization to establishing and leading Next Level NIA brought about a transition in organizational roles for both Rick and Emily. Adapting to these new responsibilities and ensuring a smooth operational flow was a learning curve.
Despite these challenges, Rick and Emily have embraced the journey, leveraging each obstacle as an opportunity for growth and improvement. The commitment to the vision of creating a next-level networking experience has been a driving force in overcoming these challenges and propelling Next Level NIA forward.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Next Level NIA?
Monthly Meetings: Serve as a strategic platform, enhancing our members’ ability to cultivate efficient relationships regularly. This framework not only underscores the importance of time for our members but also appeals to individuals with a proactive and ambitious mindset. Within these meetings, we not only foster discussions but also provide opportunities for education and networking, adding a layer of enrichment to the overall experience.
Education and Training: Next Level Business Powered by NIA offers comprehensive Education and Training sessions, including insights on economic development’s impact on businesses, advanced sales coaching techniques, and practical workshops on integrating technological innovations like AI into business processes. Our commitment is to empower members with knowledge that directly influences their business success.
No Volunteer Positions: By entrusting Next Level NIA as your dedicated Business Advocates, you eliminate the need for volunteer positions, allowing you to channel your energy exclusively toward building meaningful relationships. We take charge of group management, ensuring a seamless experience and freeing you from any additional responsibilities.
ROI Guarantee: Next Level NIA offers a robust ROI guarantee, providing you with the assurance to invest confidently and risk-free as long as you actively engage and participate. This commitment underscores our belief in the value and effectiveness of our services, aligning your success with our dedication to ensuring a worthwhile return on your investment.
Next Level Business Powered by NIA has fine-tuned the networking experience to be more creative and effective. If this vision aligns with you and you want to go to the next level in your business, please join the Next Level NIA monthly meetings to meet some other exceptional professionals and experience the next level difference. Next Level Business Powered by NIA “Redefining Professional Business Networking.”
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
The decision to host valuable monthly networking meetings as opposed to a more frequent weekly routine stems from a strategic understanding of the modern professional’s time constraints and the need for efficient relationship-building. In today’s fast-paced business environment, where professionals often juggle numerous commitments, a monthly meeting format allows members to prioritize quality interactions over quantity. This approach recognizes the value of time, catering to the needs of go-getters who seek meaningful connections without overwhelming their schedules.
Additionally, monthly meetings provide ample time for members to reflect on shared experiences, implement insights gained, and foster genuine connections that extend beyond the confines of a single encounter. Looking ahead to the future of networking, the industry is poised for significant shifts driven by advancements in technology and evolving business landscapes. With the increasing reliance on virtual communication and global connectivity, networking platforms are likely to incorporate more digital elements, enabling professionals to engage seamlessly across geographic boundaries.
Furthermore, the emphasis on continuous learning and skill development is expected to grow, making education and training sessions an integral part of networking experiences. The industry’s trajectory over the next 5-10 years will likely be characterized by a blend of virtual and in-person interactions, innovative networking platforms, and a heightened focus on the holistic professional development of its members.
Contact Info:Website: www.NextLevelNIA.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553446541170Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/98810105/admin/feed/posts/