project blueprint networking

Networkingwith Jennifer Wilson

net·work·ing [net-wur-king]noun

A supportive system of sharing information and services among individuals and groupshaving a common interest.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

LinkedIn

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

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“It’s not who you know, but who knows you.”

-- Bing Goei