What’s a SOHO?

SOHO stands for “Small Office/Home Office”, one of the fastest growing categories of business owners in the United States. While we wish we could take credit for coining the phrase, the term has been around for awhile.

How did the NE SOHO Network get started?

We (Ginny Williams and Jay Foley) are friends and former neighbors who lost contact with each other over the years. We ran into each other earlier in 2002 and in the process of getting caught up, we discovered that professionally we were on very similar paths and had started home-based businesses: Ginny as a business and personal coach, and Jay as an independent corporate trainer.

We shared our experiences and learnings as new business owners. We found that while we loved being SOHOs, we both sometimes struggled to find the information and resources to help our businesses flourish. We also didn’t know how to find and connect with other SOHOs for support and networking.

Why didn’t you just join one of the other existing business or networking organizations?

The business organizations we researched were targeted more towards traditional brick-and-mortar businesses. We wanted a group that was made up of members like us: aspiring entrepreneurs, new entrepreneurs, home based businesses and businesses with fewer than 8-10 employees. We couldn’t find a group that fit the bill, so we created the SOHO Network.

What are the goals of the SOHO Network?

The goal of the SOHO Network is to provide the resources that will help make each of our members’ businesses successful, profitable and personally rewarding. We also want to have fun doing it!

How often do you meet?

We meet once a month on the last Wednesday evening, from 6:30pm-8:30pm. Check our website for our upcoming meeting agendas

Where do you meet?

We meet at the Nevin's Library, Route 28, Methuen, MA.

Who can join?

Anyone who is a current or aspiring small office or home office business owner is welcome to join us. We invite you to bring your business cards and marketing materials each time you attend. They will be displayed at the meetings, so that others can take advantage of your products and services. We also encourage you to offer discounts and specials to SOHO Network Members. We’re happy to post the details of your specials on our website.

Network marketers are welcome to join us and display the marketing materials for your products and services. We do not allow recruiting members either during the meeting or via the SOHO Network member directory. The exception is when another member expresses interest in joining the company you represent.

How much is it to join?

The membership fee is either $10 per meeting or $50 for a six meeting card.

What are the benefits of membership?

Meet a community of SOHO’s in a relaxed, informal environment
Hear outstanding speakers on relevant business and life topics
Learn the skills necessary to run a successful SOHO business.
Access the wisdom, experience and resources of fellow SOHO’s

How can I learn more?

Contact either of the SOHO Network Directors:

Jay Foley 978. 682.1978 e-mail Jay

Ginny Williams 978. 685.4447 e-mail Ginny

Visit our website often for updates!