create a group in 4 easy steps
Step 1: Reach Out
Ask one or two friends if they know of several people who might be interested in joining a Start Smart Discussion Group. Fourteen is the recommended cap per group. Also, it is best to have a group of members with varying perspectives, backgrounds and life experiences.
Step 2: Explain the Concept
Contact those who you would like to have join your group. Explain the concept, provide a topic to discuss at the first meeting and give some guidelines on how to prepare. Invite them to a meeting and explain in general how the evening will progress. For an example see the original email sent to invite members.
Step 3: Meet
At the first meeting take some time to explain why you decided to create this group. Also, that the goal is for everyone to actively participate in the discussions and help choose the topic subjects.
Step 4: Kick back and have some fun with your new group of friends
At first, we would meet in the evening on a work day, had our discussion for an hour or two, then shared an adult beverage. As we became better acquainted, we came to treasure our discussions and mutual learning experience in an open and welcoming setting. In addition to our monthly meetings, we now enjoy occasional potluck dinners and weekend getaways together - always with a discussion topic built in.