Have you ever been a victim of a network drive-by? Or, have you ever been violated by people claiming to be networking but are just out for themselves and what you can do for them? If you’ve been left with a bad taste in your mouth for networking and think it’s just for blood sucking shameless self-promoters…read on!
In the 21st century your success in this new global economy will be determined by your ability to communicate your value (net-worth) to your network. In other words, who you know and what you know that can help someone in your network will determine your social capital. Net-worth-ing is not about you…it’s all about them!
Your Access and Influence, or A & I factor, is determined by the depth and breadth of your network. The way to build a diverse and devoted network is to be constantly on the lookout for how you can be a resource to someone. When you stand at the intersection of life looking for ways to connect people, opportunities and ideas, your net-worth begins to rise as your network witnesses the value you bring to them. What will end up coming back to you in terms of professional connections, business referrals and new relationships will blow your mind. What you send out to the world does circle back to you, usually when you least expect it and need it the most.
For those of you who had bought into the notion that you were not good at networking, net-worth-ing can give you a whole new game plan. Starting now, you can approach people with the intention to help them. You can ask people, “How can I be a resource for you?” Then actually doing what you said you would do by making the connection for this person to the people, opportunities and ideas you think would help them.
Not only will this have a huge impact professionally on you…it’s just a better way to live your life.
Together we can change the world, one connection at a time.
