Joel Van Kuiken
Twitter: @jvkzhou
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/joelvankuiken
Born: Ada, MI
Raised: Ada, MI
Resides: Grand Rapids, MI
Occupation: Public Relations Specialist
Professional Background:
I started my career at a bike shop learning the finer points of communication closing sales on a sales floor. Looking back on that period of my development, I realize now that I was in a communications lab, where I started paying more attention to communication patterns and body language in a somewhat static environment. It’s funny how closing a sale is so orthodox, and so predictable, when you follow the proper steps. When I graduated from DePaul University with a degree in English Literature, I knew I wanted to find an opportunity to teach English overseas. In 1992, I literally took my bike and went to China. I taught at a University in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, a honeymoon spot known for the beautiful West Lake and Dragon Well Tea. I traveled extensively, took lots of photographs, laid the foundation for my study of Chinese language and culture, and even produced a radio program on a local radio station – I actually met my wife while guest hosting her show. When I returned to the states I worked at a weekly alternative newspaper, and then a public access television station where I did extensive production work and interfaced with so many different types of personalities. No matter what, throughout my meandering career, I’ve always been in close contact with people, building relationships and communicating. After getting my M.S in Communications, focusing on cross-cultural communication issues, I landed in the Amway Corporate Communications department and I haven’t looked back. It’s an exciting job, and my skill set directly applies to the work I do every day. I’ve got a busy home life with three kids, but I still ride my bike, run, ski, and exercise as much as I can. I’m an avid fan of the Nutrilite story and the concept of Optimal Health.