Networking involves building a supportive system of sharing information among individuals with common interests. The document provides tips for successful networking such as arriving early to find conversation partners, asking easy introductory questions, avoiding sales pitches, actively listening, and following up within 48 hours. It also lists local networking groups in Grand Rapids such as the Young Professionals, BL2END, and various chambers of commerce.

1. Networking
with Jennifer Wilson

2. net·work·ing [net-wur-king]
noun
A supportive system of sharing information
and services among individuals and groups
having a common interest.

4. Resist the urge to arrive late
• It's easier to find other people who don't have
conversation partners yet.
• It's calmer and quieter.

5. Ask easy questions
• Simply walk up to a person or a group, and say,
"May I join you" or "What brings you to this event?“
• Don't forget to listen intently to their replies.

6. Ditch the sales pitch
• Keep your exchange fun, light and informal.
• People are more apt to do business with – or
partner with – people whose company they enjoy.

7. Don't hijack the conversation
• Some people who dislike networking may
overcompensate by commandeering the discussion.
• The most successful networkers are good at making
other people feel special.

8. Remember to follow up…
• Networking is where the conversation begins, not ends.
• Get in touch within 48 hours to show you're interested
and available, and reference something you discussed, so
your contact remembers you.

9. LinkedIn

10. Where to network?
• Grand Rapids Young Professionals (www. gryp.org)
• BL2END (www.grblend.org)
• GR Area Professionals for Excellence (www.grapegr.com)
• LinkedUp Grand Rapids
• Chamber of Commerce (www.grandrapids.org)
• Economic Club (www.econclub.net)
• Social Charity Club of GR (www.socialcharityclub.org)
• Inforum (www.inforummichigan.org)
• School alumni groups
• Industry specific groups (AMA, WMPRA, YNPN,
AIMwest)
• Nonprofit special events

11. Contact Information:
Jennifer.Phillips.Wilson
WLMag
Rapid-Growth-Media
JenniferPhillipsWilson1

12. “It’s not who you know, but who
knows you.”
-- Bing Goei