Talking about what it takes to build a successful networking group with Sherman Ray

In Las Vegas, the lifeblood of your business is making connections with potential business clients, partners, and associates. One of the best ways to develop and build relationships is through networking. The Living Pages caught up with Sherman Ray, founder of Diversity Networking Group to find out about this unique group of business owners and entrepreneurs.

Why did you start Diversity Networking Group?

The start of DNG was really done out of necessity. Linda (my wife) and I were without a networking group that would accept both of us. One group told me to leave twice. (no bitterness). At the time I was an Insurance agent and Linda was just starting our Interior Design firm. We felt that if we couldn't find a group that had all the qualities and flexibility that we needed, we would start our own. After doing some study and with much prayer, we teamed up with a core group of leaders and jumped in with both feet. All except one of those folks is still part of the team. (Ernie Martin and Denise Michaels, Senora Colvin, Lt. Col. David Hensey, Patrick Becker).

What are you most passionate about?

I am most passionate about building great leaders. John Maxwell, my mentor said it well when he said,"Everything rises and falls upon leadership." If we can help people become strong leaders then we've done our job.

What or who motivates you?

I am motivated by great leaders and mentors like, John Maxwell, Pastor Paul Goulet, Abraham Lincoln, people who have made a difference with their life and influence.

Where do you see DNG in 5 years?

In 5 years from now I see DNG as a major networking group nationwide. In Las Vegas we will have numerous chapters, including an arm whose focus will be on charitable and philanthropic pursuits.

What makes DNG unique?

The thing that makes DNG unique is our focus and approach to networking. Our "secret" to success is that we focus more on education, relationship and empowerment of our members rather than on the old school method of "referrals". People are looking for what we have. Unfortunately, we still live in a pretty self-centered environment. We have to give and give and give if we ever expect to see fruit.

What is the biggest benefit local business owners get from attending your DNG meetings?

The biggest benefit that our members or visitors get when they attend one of our meetings is a jumpstart. When they leave, most people feel like they've learned something or like they've been at a seminar.

Where can local business owners go to learn more about you and your local events?

To learn more about our events folks can always go to our website, www.diversitynetworkingroup.com or follow us on Facebook. We also post our events through the usual channels like 702events, Twitter, LinkedIn. Social Media is a wonderful thing.

What are some fun facts about you that most people don't know?

Some facts about me that most people might not know, I used to be a professional singer, I love flying airplanes, (I almost earned my pilots license), I'm an avid runner, my favorite name for my wife is the "Lovely Mrs. Ray".