How Do I Build a Network of Support?

During a recent consultation, I told my client it is important to the life of her business to build a network of support. Assuming she knew what I meant, I proceeded. She stopped me and asked, “How do I build a network?”

I realized two things in that moment:

1. How important it is to ask for clarity when we’re unsure
   
   
2. Even though we may know how vital it is to surround ourselves with a diverse network of entrepreneurs, we may not know how to begin
   

Creating a MasterMind -- a term coined by Napoleon Hill -- allows us to work smarter. Succinctly, the MasterMind principle asserts that more minds are better than one. In my experience, it is certainly true. It gives us the ability to tap into other brilliant minds to propel our business, as well as provide the same service to them. The key is a mutual exchange of value. Each person must possess knowledge that is valuable to the other(s).

I am a member of several mastermind groups. One of them is a mini-mastermind and it consists of two of us. We talk daily about current projects, goal-attainment, ongoing marketing efforts, long-term planning and anything else that arises. It’s not always business, however. We talk about aspects of our personal lives as well and have forged a very close connection.

My other MasterMind exchanges involve weekly or monthly contact. We meet regularly, whatever the frequency. My yearly planning calendar contains these dates so the months don’t slip by without meeting.

Why is a network important? I seem to be doing fine on my own.

1. Because you cannot possibly know everything. What information or expertise you lack is quickly filled by the knowledge of someone in your MasterMind group -- or someone they know. It is said every person knows at least 250 people. In a group of 5 people, that translates to a potential resource of 1,250!


2. Because entrepreneurship contains elements of stewardship and service to others. Being part of a group dynamic is the perfect opportunity to benefit from the knowledge of others and help them as well. You all gain personally as well as professionally.


3. Because what happens collectively is always more dynamic than what happens individually. Organic growth is growth that “has a mind of its own.” When your efforts are paired with those of others for a similar outcome (the growth of your businesses), the result is multi-dimensional and more beneficial than you originally imagined.

How do I build my Network?

1. Become a member of trade organizations in your industry.


2. Access the member directory and privately contact fellow members in your geographical area. Extend an invitation to meet in person; either one-on-one or as a group. This provides an excellent opportunity to meet new people. It’s fun and exciting to find out who might become the next helpful resource. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to share your vast knowledge as well.


3. Actively network both online, via telephone and in person (local meetings, workshops, etc.).


4. Offer free assistance based on your expertise. If you’re a writer, write an exclusive article for the organization’s online newsletter. If you’re a candle manufacturer, make a generous donation of your products at the next monthly meeting. You’d be surprised at how few offers are made for free goods/services. Your generosity gets noticed. Be sure to ask for a mention in the next newsletter or publication! If you make a donation, ask if you can give a 5-minute blurb on the solutions you provide for prospective clients. This may bring in extra business.


5. Maintain connections. Every relationship requires your attention. If you want to reap the rewards, you must be vested.


6. Continually look for opportunities to add to your network.

All of this sounds like it requires a great deal of time. Depending on your circumstances and personal preferences, it can, but doesn’t have to.

My network is maintained 100% virtually because my MasterMind partners are located in several countries. I attend events in person only when I’ve assessed the ROI (return on investment) because my time is precious. So is yours.

Having said that, your time and energies must be invested wisely. The amount of time you expend to maintain your MasterMind group(s) pays off in fresh inspiration, friendship and access to resources you’d never have otherwise in your solo-preneurial experience.

One last word about building your network: Know thyself! (Thank you, Plato.)

I prefer an intimate, very close network of women with whom I freely share business and personal experiences. Currently, the count of my network is 6. Each one is a partner in my business. Not in the legal use of the term, but they play an active role in the growth and evolution, even if it’s just by providing clarity when I'm foggy.

They don’t know each other; they are MY private collection of dynamic and resourceful confidants. I adore authentic connection, reliability, humor and the understanding of mutual exchange. Being clear on how I do things and the high expectations I have of myself attracts women of similar caliber. I depend a great deal on the MasterMind principle and the results have proven to be pivotal to business growth.

Take action NOW!

Go to the Web site right now of your favorite trade organization and search for all members in your area. Choose one contact with whom you’ll send a friendly invitation to meet for lunch, e.g. “Hi, Susie Q, I was on the _____ member list and noticed you’re in Brooklyn. So am I! Have you tried Joe Blow’s on the corner of 8th and Columbus? If you’re interested, I’d love to meet for a casual lunch in the next few weeks. Lunch is on me!”

Contribute to the success of others. When you need an objective perspective, a referral, or creative input, it is just a phone call or email away.

Send an email today and you’re on your way to creating a network of personal and professional empowerment. See how easy it is to get started? You'll have a meaningful, vibrant network in no time!

To your unlimited potential and success~