"In January of 2012, I was honored to be asked to join one of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce Business by Referrals networking groups.  The Realtor spots always fill up quickly so I jumped at the chance.  What a wonderful group of business professionals!  

The group has a nice structure that keeps us on task.  Plus there is time for 1-on-1 meetings so we can get to know each other better.  After all, the more we know about our fellow networkers, the better able we are to give meaningful referrals.

Consider expanding your networking activities this year by joining a Business by Referrals group.  It would be an excellent investment of your time!"

Alix Criswell
Patriot Realty

Build Your Business One Lead at a Time

The secret to great business networking is establishing a mutually beneficial relationship. Building a strong network is essential to companies and executives in order to survive. It’s the secret to a successful career and business.

The Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce’s Business by Referrals group is designed to develop a circle of 10 to 20 trusted individuals from non-competing businesses, each representing a single industry, to build a network in which members can share referrals and sales leads. The group meets twice a month and offers members the opportunity to present samples of their work and speak about their business.

Business By Referrals Group Parameters

Membership
You must be a member in good standing of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce to participate.

Representation
Each person exclusively represents their industry line of business within their group. Waiting lists for each industry seat are maintained.

Position
Business by Referrals members must be sales-oriented professionals. Company size does not matter, and no ‘title’ is necessary as long as each person is in a sales position.

Attendance
Groups meet twice a month. Members with more than three absences from meetings will lose their industry’s seat in their group.

What’s in it for me? You will increase:

• Professional contacts
• Referrals from new contacts
• Access to potential customers
• Sales

Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis as applications are received. The cost is $75 annually.

To join a group, contact Tori Bennett at bennettv@grandrapids.org or 616.771.0315. Once seats for a group are filled, a waiting list will be created and you will be notified when an opening is available.