Since the pandemic subsided a few years ago, there has been a greater focus on in-person networking events. These are opportunities for anyone to meet other professionals, pass career information, and build their respective companies. It’s the ability to make new contacts and grow. The mission usually involves cultivating relationships that may prove useful in the future.
Local networking newsletters and online platforms will direct people to numerous events. Determining which ones to attend depends on the individual, and what they hope to achieve when they go.
A brand-new networking group recently opened its doors to professionals wanting to share their experiences, while expanding their reach. That is the idea behind Little Rhody Professional Networking, a spin-off of the Mass Professional Networking that had its first grand-opening event in March 2025, in Providence. The crowd was treated to music, banter, and chances to enrich themselves.
This endeavor was the brainchild of Jeff DeSocio and Michael Merline. They are each master networkers, both well-known in networking circles. Their goal is to have more people get introduced, and find ways to make new relationships.
DeSocio said that the success of the Massachusetts-based Mass Professional Networking group sparked his desire to build more such events elsewhere.
“I don’t like going to someplace where the primary reason guests attend is explaining who they are, what they do, and passing out their cards,” DeSocio said. “That doesn’t accomplish much; in fact, that process often ends up having the opposite effect. Instead, we want to see people understand why they do what they enjoy, how they can help out, and could become helpful advisors towards reaching their goals. The ability to be a trusted resource instead of someone just out for their own interests should be the standard.”
Merline agrees with that assessment. Going to such events for the first time can be intimidating. Not knowing anyone, or how to approach either someone or a small group, can make the experience difficult, if not impossible. Merline said that there are certainly ways to alleviate stress.
Among the ideas include: 30-second introductions, doing a fun activity, or finding one new person to meet. Merline said that the ability to “break the ice” can be the beginning of a productive night.
The advice comes from someone who has attended many events over the years.
“It’s about having the confidence in knowing who you are and what you want out of the event,” Merline said. “Everyone’s a little nervous when they walk through the door. Anyone who says otherwise is lying. People want to share their stories and skills, but also, they want to genuinely help out, when possible. There is certainly a balancing act. However, reading the room and getting involved makes a lasting impression on others.”
Little Rhody Professional Networking launched its first event on March 18th, at the Industrial Café in Pawtucket. The good-sized crowd was treated to casual conversations, sharing business strategies, Rick Lataille from WRIK Entertainment spinning vinyl records, and complimentary appetizers.
Their next event will be held on April 15th, at The District in Providence. Details may be found by visiting http://mpnetworking041525.eventbrite.com, or the main event page at http://www.aimcbizsolutions.com/massprofessionalnetworking.
DeSocio feels that the Rhode Island events will occur monthly, like the ones occurring in the Greater Boston area.
“We envision an event where it becomes the ‘go-to networking’ gig in the state,” said. “The events we hosted in Boston, Framingham, Worcester, and elsewhere grew as the word got out. Our hope is for these events in Rhode Island to take off like their counterparts.”
When they are not involved with this endeavor, Merlin and DeSocio are busy with their day jobs.
Jeffrey DeSocio is an accomplished Information Technology Executive with over twenty-five years of technology experience, from startups to Fortune 500 companies, and is the owner of AIMC Business Solutions. He is also an entrepreneur, avid connector, and marketer, and is the founder of one of Greater Boston’s most successful professional networking organizations, Mass Professional Networking. DeSocio has also recently pivoted his career to become a successful managing director at Broadreach Executive Search, integrating his vast technology management & organizational knowledge, and networking to help hyper growth organizations connect with talented professionals.
Michael Merline is passionate about music connecting fans, musicians, and music venues, with each other. He has extensive knowledge and experience buying and selling vinyl records, and educating music fans about the history and connections that play an important role in music trends. He has successfully promoted and connected bands with music clubs, radio stations, music festivals, and vinyl record production.
Additionally, Merline enjoys live music, 2-3 times a week, connecting musicians with music clubs, audiences, and recorded music that is adjacent to their music styles and interests. His favorite Rhode Island venues include Nick A Nees, Alchemy, The Met, The Parlour, Industrial Café, The Blue Room, and The Courtland Club. Say hello to him if you see him around the live music scene.
For more details about the new venture, please visit the AIMC Business Solutions Networking Page at http://www.aimcbizsolutions.com/massprofessionalnetworking, and DeSocio’s blog at http://www.desocialconnector.com/.
Also, join Little Rhody Professional Networking on Facebook or LinkedIn.
