Earlier in my articles I stressed the need for networking. Question is who do you network with? Many people tell me that they have networked and nothing has happened yet but equally important is the need to have a diverse network that suits all your needs.
Quality and Quantity are important and how do you combine both without stressing too much on one side. A well rounded network is important and that’s why having a large group people who not only adds value but introduces you to an even larger network is important. In this labor market, having a strong network is critical to your professional survival. Here are the top people that should be in your network:
Mentor Mike: Mike has made it in the area you aspire to reach and knows it and he can give you tips on how to reach where you want. You can learn from his success as well as his mistakes. Heed his wisdom and experience. The advantage of this particular kind of person is that he will walk with you and he knows where you have come from and what you have gone through and what to expect. This particular kind of network is most important and should be at the top of your list as he can also serve as a mentor to the rest of your network.
Coach Bob: Bob is the guy who comes in when you need to make a decision that could possibly affect your life. He wont always be there but when you need him for that critical advice, he will be your go to guy. But don’t
Carol the Insider: This one knows the nitty gritty of your chosen career be it marketing or administration or Public relations. They know what is happening and what will happen. They predict issues concerning the trends and trust me, they are critical if you need to make decisions pertaining to your career. They work in the industry.
‘Kama’ the Hustler: This is a person who has access to people, resources and information. As soon as they come across something related to you, they are sending you an email or picking up the phone. Connectors are great at uncovering unique ways to make connections, finding resources and opportunities most people would over look.
Linda the Dreamer: This is the person in your network you can dream with. No matter how “out there” your latest idea is, this is the person that will help you brainstorm ways to make it happen. Without judgment, they are focused on helping you flush out your dreams in high definition, even if you don’t have a solid plan yet on how to make it happen.
Straight talking Suzie: On the other hand you still need the person who will help you keep it real. This is the person who will give you the raised eyebrow when your expectations exceed your effort. These are not people who knock down your dreams rather they challenge you to actively make your dream happen.
Vivian the Visionary: Visionary people inspire you by their journey. They are similar to the Idealist, but the visionary can help you envision an actual plan to reach your goal. One personal encounter with this type of person can powerfully change the direction of your thinking and life.
The other Half: by this I don’t mean a marriage partner rather than someone who shares similar tastes and plans and someone you can share the wins and woes with. Partners will also share resources, opportunities and information.
Obviously you will want to have more than 8 people in your network. The trick is to make sure you are building a diverse network by adding people from different industries, backgrounds, age groups, ethnic groups, etc…that fit into the roles listed above. Building a deep network by only including people from your current profession or business focus leaves too many stones unturned, limiting potential opportunities.
Serious about building a strong professional network that can actually provide the leverage you need to make progress at work? Evaluate your current network and get started filling in the gaps.
Happy networking!
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