In the next month some of my professional memberships are up for renewal and I must consider what value each has brought me over the past year.  My primary purpose for both LinkedIn and SEMPO is lead generation (although clearly both offer other features/functionality).  So the question is:  What have you done for me lately?

First SEMPO.  Individual Membership $299 US

I’ve supported this organization since its inception although I’ve often questioned whether or not it has a well-defined mandate.  I’m listed in the member directory as an individual which, although is correct, seems to penalize me unnecessarily.  I get the following kinds of leads from SEMPO:

• students or those just new to SEM wanting free advice
• small business entrepreneurs whose first words to me are “I don’t have much budget”

I have rarely replied to a SEMPO RFP and to date have acquired no new SEMPO business.  I was (wrongly?) hoping that SEMPO would help grow my business.  It has not. 

Next LinkedIn. Business Account: $199 US

Let’s just face it.  LinkedIn is my new addiction.  Beyond networking, you are only limited by your imagination in how you use it.  I’ve had great successful in using it for lead generation by identifying specific companies I’d like to work with and finding an appropriate contact within.  I would rather InMail than cold call any day! 

Interestingly, Google Analytics tells me my web site gets more traffic from SEMPO than LinkedIn.  But in terms of qualified leads, LinkedIn wins out by a long shot. 

I won’t be renewing my SEMPO membership this year.  You?