Have you gotten religion about how important YP networks are to attracting and retaining talent to your community? If so, you're part of a growing consortium of cities doing so.

I frequently get asked HOW TO do this. Following is a short list of Do's and Don’ts, followed by a list of YP networks from across the country. These folks are tremendous at sharing what they know...so go visit, invite their leaders to your community, or drop them a line.

DO

1. Dedicate staff to manage the membership database and coordinate events
   
   
2. Have events at “cool” locations (ie new bars or nightclubs, legendary or historic places, or cutting edge companies)
   
   
3. Have a reason for each meeting beyond just “social/networking.” (In Milwaukee, we’ve had diversity cafés, introductions to the performing arts, mayoral debates, etc.)
   
   
4. Have appetizers/food and beverages
   
   
5. Allow the YPs to tell you what they want to work on, and then facilitate making it happen
   
   
6. Study and reach out to other successful Young Professionals groups

DON’T

1. Put a hard age range on the group. In Milwaukee we say it’s for folks under 35 and the young at heart
   
   
2. Allow the leadership of the group to be all white or all older. Make it a mix of singles, new transplants to the area, local cheerleaders, etc.
   
   
3. Allow the pale, male, and stale to drive the group’s agenda
   
   
4. Underestimate the power of this group
   
   
5. Believe you have all the answers; ask them for the answers
   
   
6. Assume they’ll know how to run the organization; they may need your help