Creativity, Credibility Create a mission statement for the group. This statement should be incorporated into group members' business plans. Sometimes groups will enlist a member with appropriate expertise to review all member plans, including marketing tactics, to update plans and incorporate the group's goals. A group Web site can also help. The emerging Yourtown group, for instance, could draw a Web site audience by posting homeowner tips and techniques.
Members can sponsor the site on a rotating basis.
Maintaining high standards and communicating them to members and the general public. Once your group is established, crank up the PR machine. You can use your group to trade knowledge about what works and what doesn't. Best of all, you can pool resources and sponsor high-profile events that will attract optimal news coverage. Take advantage of your instant newsworthiness by sending out media releases announcing the group's formation and aims.