Porter Gale wrote a book she titled Your Network is Your Net Worth to emphasise the importance of connections and relationships for success whether in wealth, in life or in your work. According to Amazon.com, “the book is an entertaining, straightforward guide filled with revealing case studies, hands-on advice, and innovative strategies for building your network.”
I think everyone should be actively building and nurturing the following three networks:
1. Your OPERATIONAL network – this network is made up of people in your professional circle who will help you get things done at work, your career or your business. Typically these will be people within your organisation or business with whom you build strong working relationships.
2. Your PERSONAL network – this network is made up of people from a range of fields, professions and backgrounds to whom you can reach out for advice, for inspiration and for connection. They can introduce you to others, make referrals and point you to new and useful information for your current situation.
3. Your STRATEGIC network – this network is made up of people who will open your eyes to new perspectives, new directions or future possibilities. These are people who are a few steps ahead of you, who can share their experience with you and help you explore new paths, knowing that they are there to guide you or offer a helping hand should you get stuck. They can be both internal in your organisation and external. They can be mentors or even peers who you admire and who’s opinions you trust and value – like recognised industry experts, thought leaders or coaches.
If you don’t have these three types of networks, go create them now. And if you need help, just let me know.