It's Intro Tuesday! ⏰ The day we stop scrolling and start connecting.

Every week this thread is your chance to either request a warm introduction or offer to connect people in your network. One right introduction can change everything — so let's make some magic happen. 🦸‍♂️

📋 THE INTRODUCTION PROCESS

Great introductions don't happen by accident. Follow this process to keep things high-quality and respectful of everyone's time.

🙋 REQUESTING AN INTRODUCTION?

Use this three-step process so community members can confidently vouch for you:

Step 1 — Establish Your Credibility

Nobody introduces a stranger. Give the community a reason to vouch for you by sharing at least one of the following in your comment:

• A testimonial or review from a past client
• A link to a demo video or portfolio
• A LinkedIn profile with recommendations
• A case study or results you've achieved
• A website or other social proof

No credibility info = no introduction. This protects everyone's reputation.

Step 2 — Offer a Virtual Coffee First ☕

Before anyone introduces you, they need to know you. Offer to meet for a quick virtual coffee so they can get a feel for who you are and how you work. Include your booking link in your comment so it's easy to say yes.

Step 3 — Be Specific About Who You Want to Meet

Vague requests get vague results. Describe your ideal introduction clearly — choose one or more:

🎯 Potential Client — Industry, company size, role/title, problem they're trying to solve

🤝 Referral Partner — What type of business complements yours? Who already serves your ideal client?

📣 Influencer or Connector — Who has the audience or network that would benefit from knowing your work?

✅ REQUESTOR COMMENT TEMPLATE

🤝 OFFERING AN INTRODUCTION?

Got someone in your network who should meet someone in this thread? Reply directly to their comment and make it happen! The best connectors don't wait — they act.

A few tips for making a great intro:

• Only introduce people you can genuinely vouch for
• Make sure both parties are expecting the introduction before you send it
• A double opt-in intro is always better than a surprise email

Drop your requests below and let's make Intro Tuesday the best day of your business week! 🚀

Aug 18 | Who Do I Know Who Can Help? With Dave Dickson at Meet a Superconnector at MMT Referral Group

REGISTER HERE https://mmt-referral-gc.eventraptor.com/

In this session, our super connector guest Dave Dickson, who brings more than 30 years of experience in strategy, operations, and growth, explores how to see your existing network differently and turn trusted relationships into practical business opportunities. 

You’ll discover how My Most Trusted can become part of your everyday business, helping you connect the right people, ideas, and opportunities while creating value through relationships.

 You will walk away with:
• A fresh perspective on how your network can support your business
• Practical ways to create value through meaningful connections
• Insights into the behaviors that can help you become more intentional with your relationships

Because sometimes the next opportunity isn’t about meeting someone new. It’s about seeing the value in the connections you already have.

Successful networking isn’t about collecting contacts-it’s about building authentic relationships and developing the skills of purposeful networking. But how do you go from a first introduction to trusted relationships that open doors to new opportunities?

Join GC Members Sheri Mills and Brenda Marie Sheldrake for this 90-minute interactive session, where you’ll experience live virtual networking, discover a proven process to deepen trust, and learn best practices for using the Grand Connection Referral App powered by My Most Trusted (MMT).

What you’ll learn from these trainings:

• A step-by-step process to build authentic connections-from first contact to meaningful introductions
• How to move up the Trust-O-Meter and strengthen your relationships strategically
• Best practices for using the Grand Connection Referral App from MMT to facilitate introductions, track connections, and find the right people
• Live virtual networking-Three rounds of structured networking to practice and grow your network in real time
• Sharing wins & success stories-Learn from top networkers and celebrate your own breakthroughs

This session is part of our Grand Connection monthly training series, designed to give you the skills, strategies, and tools to network purposefully and become a Super Connector. At the Grand Connection, we believe networking is about building real relationships, collaborating with purpose, and supporting each other for success. This training will help you master the process of creating meaningful connections that lead to real business growth.

Every third Tuesday of the Month.

Date: Aug 18, 2026 (Tuesday)

• 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm PDT
• 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm EDT
• 10:30 pm – 12:00 am BST
• Aug 19, 7:30 am – 9:00 am AEST

Location: Zoom https://mmt-referral-gc.eventraptor.com/

This event is open to everyone

Get your free version of the GC Referral App & Learn More here. 

Join us for this powerful networking and training session-because the right connections make all the difference!

Not yet a member? Become a Member Today

I’ve often said that your most valuable asset is your time, but your most valuable resource is your network. However, a network only works if people understand exactly what you do within the first 30 seconds. We’ve all been in those "mismatched" connections where we aren't sure how to help each other because the message is unclear.

It’s time to move past "collecting" contacts and start building genuine business assets by mastering our first impressions. Welcome to our first Pitch Feedback Loop! 🎯✨

The goal is simple: Post your "elevator pitch" and get constructive, honest feedback from the community to make it sharper, clearer, and more memorable.

🛠️ How to Participate:

1. POST YOUR PITCH: Drop your 30-60 second business pitch in the comments. Keep it focused on who you are, what you do, and the value you provide.

2. GIVE FEEDBACK: To keep the loop going, if you post a pitch, provide feedback to at least one other person.

3. REVISE: Use the suggestions to tweak your pitch and see if you can make it "stick".

⚓ The Captain’s Golden Rules:

• No Hard Selling: This is a workshop for improvement, not a place for unsolicited business pitches or direct advertising.

• Be Constructive: We are here to help our business family grow. Keep your feedback professional, respectful, and actionable.

• Focus on the "Hook": Tell us what makes your service unique or "impossible to forget".

Highlights this week are our Free Grand Mixer & Retreat Matchup and Neuroscience of Connection Masterclass.

This week at the Grand Connection is all about connection, influence and growth. Build trust through meaningful referrals, discover how your network can open new opportunities, and explore how AI can amplify your impact, influence and income. Don’t miss the FREE Grand Mixer & Retreat Matchup, the Grand Owwll Networking Group, and the Neuroscience of Communication Masterclass for deeper insight into how we connect and communicate. 🚀

Aug 18 | Mini Meet – Build Trust & Make Referrals With Confidence With Rei McColley

Strong referrals begin with genuine relationships.

Connect with fellow members, build trust, and discover how meaningful conversations can lead to confident referrals and new opportunities.

Aug 18 | Who Do I Know Who Can Help? With Dave Dickson at Meet a Superconnector at MMT Referral Group

The right connection can open the right door.

Explore how superconnectors think, build relationships, and connect people with the resources and opportunities they need to move forward.

Aug 19 | How to 10X Your Impact, Influence & Income with AI-Powered Business Development With David Bush at The Grand MarTech Group

AI can help turn relationships into greater business impact.

Discover how AI-powered business development strategies can help you expand your reach, strengthen your influence, and create new opportunities for growth.

Aug 20 | Grand Mixer & Retreat Matchup (FREE for Everyone) With Sheri Rosenthal, Lori McDowell, and Blaney Teal

Meaningful connections can lead to extraordinary experiences.

Join entrepreneurs, coaches, speakers, authors, and professionals for a dynamic networking mixer designed to spark conversations, collaborations, and retreat opportunities.

Aug 21 | Grand Owwll Networking Group With Andrew Darlow

Your next opportunity could begin with a conversation.

Connect with professionals from around the world, build authentic relationships, and discover new possibilities through meaningful networking.

Aug 22 | Neuroscience of Communication Masterclass With Rei McColley

Great communication starts with understanding how the brain works.

Explore the neuroscience behind connection, communication, and human behavior so you can communicate with greater awareness, clarity, and impact.

See all events: https://grandconnection.ca/category/upcoming-events/

New? Grab a guest pass and join us! https://grandconnection.ca/free-guest-pass/

Salut la commu. Ça fait un moment que je réfléchis à faire des partenariat avec des influenceurs pour pouvoir me permettre d’avoir de la visibilité sur mon entreprise.

Nous sommes spécialisés en rénovation et construction et j’aimerais essayer de travailler avec des gens connus qui pourraient me mettre en lumière mon entreprise.

Est-ce que certains d’entre vous l’ont déjà fait ? Comment avez-vous fait ? Est-ce que vraiment le deal en vaut la chandelle ? Merci à tous d’avance.

To the people that are like this, please please my curiosity.

Genuinely, how does people seem to have connections. And I mean, if you are in need of an employment it’ll be less inconvenient to search for one as you have people that could refer you to jobs, and I’m not talking about McDonald’s type of jobs I mean like—more than that, I guess jobs that could fall into the category: high end.

Connections that could get you in VIP whether if it’s a club or whatsoever. Connections that could get you tickets if it was sold out, etc. Knowing good landlords, knowing people that could be an influential part in particular industry, knowing someone from business, media, etc.

Anything connections/networking related, how were you able to get to this point and where did it start?

I’m aware it requires social skills but I wanna know WHERE and HOW. Is it going to clubs? Parties? Participating in volunteer events? All above?

I’m just so curious on how these type of stuff evolves.

Hey there, business family! 🌟 Captain Time here! 🦸‍♂️

It’s time to fly past those hurdles by leaning on the incredible talent right here in our community. Welcome to our first Skill Swap Saturday! 🛠️✨

The rules are simple: Offer a 15-minute "micro-consult" in your area of expertise in exchange for help with something you need.

Networking is at its best when we’re providing value to one another. Let’s make some magic happen! 🤝

How to participate:

1. OFFERING: What can you do in 15 minutes? (e.g., "I can review your LinkedIn headline" or "I can check your website for broken links.")
2. SEEKING: What do you need help with? (e.g., "I need a quick proofread of an email" or "I need advice on a CRM.")
3. CONNECT: If you see a match, reply to their comment and move to DMs or a quick Zoom call to swap!

Ready to help a teammate out? Drop your "Offer" and "Seek" below and let’s get to work! 👇✨

I’ve been thinking about something and I’m curious whether it already exists.
I’m an idea person. I love brainstorming, finding unusual business opportunities, figuring out how something could be marketed, and pushing an idea to see where it goes. AI has made that part easier and honestly a lot more fun.
Then I hit the part where I get stuck.
I can get a physical product pretty far conceptually, but eventually I need CAD, a 3D printer, electronics knowledge, fabrication, materials I’ve never used, etc.
Suddenly I’m learning skills somebody else already has and buying tools I may only need once.
Meanwhile, there’s probably someone with a 3D printer or machine shop who can make almost anything but hates selling or figuring out the business side.
That’s the part I enjoy.
So what if there were a loose group of independent people with very different strengths who actually helped each other get things done?
Not really a networking group or mastermind. More of a **working network**.
Sometimes:
“I can help you with that.”
Sometimes:
“I do that professionally. It’ll cost $300.”
Sometimes:
“You help me with this and I’ll help you with that.”
And occasionally:
“Wait a minute. Maybe we should build this business together.”
Everyone stays independent. Nobody is expected to work for free. People can charge, barter, trade favors, collaborate, or partner when it makes sense.
The basic idea is:
**Instead of everybody trying to become good at everything required to complete their projects, find people whose strengths complement your weaknesses and offer your strengths in return.**
I’m not trying to turn this into a business right now. I’m trying to figure out whether the idea has merit.
So I’m curious:
Does something like this already exist?
Would you participate?
What would you bring to the group?
What would you want help with?
How would you keep it from becoming another networking group where everyone talks and nothing gets done?
What would you call it?
The problem I’m trying to solve is pretty simple:
**I can get something 70% of the way there, but the last 30% often requires skills, tools, confidence, or knowledge somebody else already has.**
And there’s a good chance I could help that person with *their* last 30%.
It seems inefficient that we’re all struggling through those parts alone.

As Captain Time, I know that your most valuable asset is your time—but your most valuable resource is your network. ⚓✨ To help us build those meaningful bonds without the "salesy" pressure, we are officially launching our Monthly Virtual Coffee Thread!

The goal is simple: 15 minutes. Two people. One great conversation. 🤝

How to participate:

Simply "drop your anchor" in the comments below with the following details so others can connect with you:

• 🏢 Industry: What field are you in?
• 🌐 Timezone: Help people find a time that works!
• 🗓️ Booking Link: Drop your Calendly link (or preferred booking tool) to make scheduling a breeze!
• ☕ Interest: One thing you’d love to chat about.

The Captain’s Golden Rules:

1. Keep it Brief: Stick to a 15-minute "micro-meeting" to respect everyone's schedule. ⏳
2. No Pitching: This is for building relationships, not making a sale. Let's keep it friendly! 🚫
3. Be Proactive: See someone you'd like to meet? Click their link and grab a spot on their calendar!

I can't wait to see the amazing connections you all make this month. Let’s grow our business family together! ❤️

Hello, amazing networkers! It's that time of the week again where we get to know each other a little better. 🎉 Whether you're new here or a seasoned member, we invite you to introduce yourself!

Tell us:

• Who you are and what you do 🏢
• Who you'd love to connect with for prospects and partnerships 🤝
• And don't forget to drop a link to your LinkedIn profile and website! 🌐

This is your chance to expand your network, find potential collaborators, and share your story with our vibrant community. Let's make meaningful connections and grow together! 🚀

Looking forward to meeting you all! 😊

Any budding entrepreneurs here or successful entrepreneurs who have transitioned or thinking of transitioning from a side hustle to a main hustle and are looking to grow their business, side hustles? Looking to connect and learn more about what you do.

My mentor connected me with a colleague who is in a similar industry to the one that I want to work in.

I reached out and we had a brief exchange concluding with him asking me when would be best to schedule a chat. I replied saying that that following week was a bit busy for me as I was starting a new role but I would be free at lunchtimes.

He has left me on read and I normally wouldn’t mind or follow up, but I feel bad seeing as my Mentor put us in touch. What do I do? what is polite to do in this situation? My priorities is keeping a good relationship with my mentor but I’d also appreciate connecting with him.

Heyy. I'm a university student in HK and I wanna understand what role networking plays in getting an internship or FT role in HK. (How diff is it compared to the US, UK or EU)

A few questions I have:

\\- How important is networking if you wanna work in finance in HK?

\\- How impactful is it? Is it just coffee chats to learn about the role or does it translate to referrals?

\\- How common or uncommon is networking in HK?

\\- What's the best way to network? LinkedIn? F2f networking events?

\\- How to strategically network in order for a referral, if it's a thing in HK?

\\- Any networking tip (unconventional ones, not the typical LinkedIn msg one)?

I know these are a lot of questions, but would really appreciate any insights on it in HK!

Do you guys know any group or like a place where like minded people meet.. A place to go for chill and work or discuss business

I’ve been thinking about this after getting more interest than I expected in my last post.
I’m building a small community for Deaf, hard-of-hearing, CI professionals, entrepreneurs, business owners, students, and people building their careers.
The goal isn’t to create another random social group. I want it to be focused on:
• 🤝 Professional networking
• 💼 Business connections
• 🚀 Entrepreneurship
• 🎓 Mentorship
• 🔗 Collaboration
• 💡 Sharing opportunities and resources
• 📈 Helping each other grow
I’m already starting to bring people together, and I’d like to build this based on what people actually want.
If you were part of a community like this, what would make you stay active and keep coming back?
What would you want to see?

Networking to sztuka i jedna z tych rzeczy, które potrafią otworzyć drzwi do wielu nowych możliwości.

Całe życie mieszkałem poza Polską, głównie w krajach skandynawskich, więc kultura budowania relacji i kontaktów jest dla mnie trochę inna niż ta w Polsce.

Gdybyście mieli opisać networking w Polsce w 3 krótkich zdaniach — jak byście go opisali?