12 Networking Tips From John Wilson, Founder of CEO Global Network

We Sat Down with the Founder of CEO Global Network, John Wilson

In the latest episode of Brews & Buzzwords, we sat down with John Wilson, the founder of CEO Global Network, to talk about how business leaders can build real, lasting connections through networking. 

John has spent decades bringing CEOs and entrepreneurs together in peer groups designed to foster honest dialogue, accountability, and mutual growth. During our conversation, he shared how strong networks don’t form by chance—they’re built intentionally through trust and shared purpose. 

He also discussed the difference between transactional networking and relationship-based connection, emphasizing that genuine curiosity and generosity always win in the long run. 

Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or just starting out, John’s insights reveal that effective networking is less about collecting contacts and more about cultivating relationships that help you think bigger, lead better, and achieve results that matter.

About John Wilson

John Wilson is the founder and driving force behind CEO Global Network, a peer network for high-performing business leaders. With over two decades of experience advising entrepreneurs and CEOs, John has built his reputation on helping leaders think strategically, act decisively, and connect meaningfully. 

His approach to networking centers on authenticity and value creation. He believes strong relationships are built on mutual respect and shared accountability, not self-promotion. In his view, effective networking happens when leaders show up with curiosity, transparency, and a willingness to help others succeed. 

John teaches that every conversation should serve a purpose—either to learn, to support, or to challenge thinking. By fostering environments where openness and trust are the norm, he has turned networking into a leadership discipline that drives both personal and business growth.

About CEO Global Network

CEO Global Network is a professional peer network that brings together business leaders committed to growth, leadership excellence, and accountability. The organization provides structured environments where CEOs and entrepreneurs can exchange ideas, gain perspective, and receive honest feedback from others who understand the pressures of leadership. 

Each group is carefully curated to align members by experience, mindset, and ambition, ensuring conversations remain relevant and results-oriented. Meetings combine open dialogue with structured goal-setting and follow-up, helping members hold themselves and each other accountable for progress. 

CEO Global Network is built on the belief that no leader should face challenges alone. By connecting leaders who share values of integrity, humility, and performance, the network transforms isolation into insight and competition into collaboration. For many, it’s more than a network—it’s a catalyst for sharper decisions, stronger leadership, and long-term success.

12 Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Networking

In this section, we’ll explore John Wilson’s most practical and proven networking insights drawn from his work with hundreds of business leaders. Each tip reflects real-world lessons on how to build meaningful connections that drive personal and professional growth.

1. Be Genuine and Authentic

2. Lead with Giving, Not Getting

3. Follow Up and Stay Connected

4. Use LinkedIn and Prep Research

5. Join Peer Groups and Vetted Networks

6. Prioritize Emotional Intelligence

7. Seek Mentorship and Reciprocal Peer Support

8. Focus on Long-Term Relationships

9. Attend the Right Events

10. Practice Accountability and Share Priorities

11. Run Structured One-to-Ones and Listen More

12. Treat Your Network as a Competitive Advantage

1. Be Genuine and Authentic

Authenticity builds credibility and trust faster than any business card exchange. John Wilson emphasizes that networking works best when you show up as yourself—honest about your goals, open about your challenges, and curious about others. When people sense you’re genuine, they’re more inclined to invest time and attention in the relationship. Avoid polished scripts or rehearsed elevator pitches. Instead, speak plainly and listen for what others value.

What authenticity looks like:

• Share your real experiences, not just your successes.
  
• Ask questions that show genuine curiosity.
  
• Avoid trying to impress; aim to connect.
  
• Let your actions reflect your words.
  

2. Lead with Giving, Not Getting

The strongest networks form when you give before you receive. Wilson teaches that generosity establishes credibility and signals long-term thinking. Offer help, advice, or introductions without expecting anything in return. Over time, your reputation for being helpful will attract opportunities naturally.

Ways to give first:

• Introduce two people who could benefit from knowing each other.
  
• Offer insights from your expertise when relevant.
  
• Share resources or recommendations that might help someone’s business.
  

Generosity builds goodwill, and goodwill turns into trust—the true currency of networking.

3. Follow Up and Stay Connected

A single meeting rarely builds a lasting relationship. Real connection requires consistent follow-up. John advises reaching out soon after meeting someone, ideally within 24–48 hours, while the conversation is still fresh. Follow up with purpose—thank them for their time, reference something specific you discussed, or share a useful link.

Ways to stay connected:

• Schedule quick check-ins every few months.
  
• Send short updates about your business progress.
  
• Celebrate their achievements publicly or in person.
  

Regular contact shows reliability, and reliability builds respect.

4. Use LinkedIn and Prep Research

Preparation shows professionalism. Before attending an event or meeting someone new, Wilson recommends using LinkedIn to learn about their background, industry, and interests. Knowing these details helps you ask relevant questions and build rapport faster.

How to prepare effectively:

• Review their recent posts and comment thoughtfully.
  
• Identify mutual connections who can provide context.
  
• Note any shared affiliations, such as alumni networks or organizations.
  

A little research before a conversation transforms small talk into meaningful dialogue and makes a lasting impression.

5. Join Peer Groups and Vetted Networks

Not all networking spaces are created equal. Wilson’s own organization, CEO Global Network, thrives because it curates peer groups that align by mindset, ambition, and experience. Joining a well-structured group helps you build relationships with people who understand your challenges and hold you accountable.

Why curated groups matter:

• They foster deeper trust through shared context.
  
• They attract committed, growth-oriented professionals.
  
• They ensure conversations are relevant and constructive.
  

Choose networks that focus on quality interactions rather than sheer size. Depth always outweighs volume.

6. Prioritize Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence turns ordinary conversations into genuine connections. John stresses that successful leaders read the room, manage their emotions, and respond thoughtfully. Emotional intelligence helps you understand not just what someone says, but how they feel when saying it.

Ways to apply emotional intelligence:

• Listen for tone and emotion, not just content.
  
• Mirror positive energy and remain calm under pressure.
  
• Recognize when to speak and when to stay silent.
  

Strong emotional awareness fosters empathy—and empathy builds influence.

7. Seek Mentorship and Reciprocal Peer Support

No leader grows in isolation. Wilson believes mentorship accelerates development, but so does surrounding yourself with peers who challenge and support you. A strong network includes people who inspire, advise, and hold you accountable.

What to build into your circle:

• Mentors who share hard-earned lessons.
  
• Peers who understand your struggles and successes.
  
• Mentees you can help in return, reinforcing your own learning.
  

Networking at its best becomes a cycle of shared growth, not a hierarchy.

8. Focus on Long-Term Relationships

John Wilson views networking as a long game, not a transaction. The goal is to build trust and maintain it through consistent engagement. Quick wins fade, but genuine relationships can last a career.

How to think long-term:

• Invest time in fewer but more meaningful connections.
  
• Show interest beyond business—remember personal details.
  
• Be reliable and consistent in your commitments.
  

Over time, these habits create a network that supports you through both growth and challenge.

9. Attend the Right Events

Where you network matters. Wilson encourages leaders to choose events that align with their goals and values—whether that’s a chamber of commerce, a professional association, or a CEO forum. The right room puts you among people who understand your journey and share your ambition.

Choosing valuable environments:

• Prioritize smaller, high-quality gatherings.
  
• Attend events with shared focus or industry relevance.
  
• Look for opportunities where genuine conversations outweigh sales pitches.
  

The right environment elevates both the quality of your connections and the impact of your time.

10. Practice Accountability and Share Priorities

Accountability deepens relationships and accelerates results. In CEO Global Network, members regularly share quarterly priorities and outcomes with their peers. This transparency builds trust and sparks collaboration. When people know your goals, they’re more likely to introduce opportunities that align.

How to practice accountability:

• Publicly commit to key goals within your network.
  
• Ask others to hold you accountable for progress.
  
• Follow through on your promises consistently.
  

Accountability transforms networking from casual contact into collective progress.

11. Run Structured One-to-Ones and Listen More

A productive one-to-one conversation has structure and purpose. Wilson teaches that leaders should spend most of the time listening rather than talking. This approach uncovers insights and builds empathy.

How to make one-to-ones effective:

• Start with clear intent—know what you want to learn.
  
• Listen actively and take notes.
  
• Close by identifying a concrete next step, such as an introduction or follow-up.
  

Listening signals respect, and respect strengthens every connection.

12. Treat Your Network as a Competitive Advantage

Your network isn’t just a list of contacts—it’s a living asset that fuels strategy, growth, and resilience. Wilson reminds leaders that those who nurture relationships consistently outperform those who work in isolation. Your network offers honest feedback, emotional support, and new perspectives.

Ways to cultivate this advantage:

• Map out your key relationships and maintain them intentionally.
  
• Share information that benefits your network.
  
• Recognize and thank people who contribute to your success.
  

A strong network multiplies your reach, sharpens your thinking, and turns collaboration into your greatest strength.

Good Places in the GTA to Network

The Greater Toronto Area offers a wealth of opportunities to build meaningful business relationships—if you know where to look. John Wilson emphasizes that the best environments for networking are those that combine professional relevance, accountability, and community. Below are some of the most effective places in the GTA where business owners and leaders can grow their networks, exchange ideas, and find genuine support.

CEO Global Network

CEO Global Network is one of the most respected peer organizations for senior executives and entrepreneurs in Canada. It connects leaders in confidential, high-trust groups that meet regularly to share experiences, solve problems, and hold each other accountable. 

Each group is professionally chaired and designed to help members make better decisions, achieve stronger results, and live more balanced lives. Beyond structured meetings, members benefit from access to exclusive events, expert speakers, and a vibrant community of like-minded leaders who value honesty, discipline, and growth.

GTA Boards of Trade

The Boards of Trade across the GTA—such as the Toronto Region Board of Trade, the Mississauga Board of Trade, and the Brampton Board of Trade—offer structured environments for local business owners to connect, collaborate, and influence policy. These organizations host regular events, workshops, and networking sessions that attract a diverse mix of entrepreneurs, executives, and professionals. 

Joining your local Board of Trade provides access to resources, advocacy initiatives, and visibility within your regional business ecosystem. For those looking to expand locally, these are powerful hubs for connection and credibility.

GTA Chambers of Commerce

Local Chambers of Commerce serve as community anchors for business development and connection. Groups such as the Oakville Chamber of Commerce, Markham Board of Trade, and Burlington Chamber of Commerce foster trusted relationships among business leaders. 

They provide opportunities for members to collaborate on civic initiatives, attend industry-specific events, and access mentorship programs. Chambers tend to attract established businesses and emerging entrepreneurs alike, creating a mix of experience and innovation that fuels authentic networking. Membership also signals commitment to the business community—a valuable reputation asset.

Local Networking Events

Toronto and the surrounding area host an ongoing calendar of professional networking events that cater to various industries and leadership levels. 

Larger conferences like Collision bring global innovators together, while smaller niche events foster more targeted relationship-building. The key is to choose events that align with your goals and values. 

Prioritize those that encourage open dialogue, knowledge exchange, and partnership over pure self-promotion. By attending strategically, you’ll find yourself surrounded by people who share your drive and can help elevate your business trajectory.

See our post on 12 Networking Events in York Region to Check Out

NVISION Helps Businesses Unlock More Revenue

At NVISION, we believe that growth starts with connection—both with your customers and within your network. We help businesses like yours turn awareness into action through full-funnel marketing strategies that convert attention into measurable results. 

Our team understands how to align brand, message, and market opportunity so every touchpoint drives revenue. 

If you’re ready to strengthen your network, elevate your visibility, and accelerate your business growth, we’d love to partner with you. Let’s build something that moves your business forward—together.

Contact NVISION Today