By: Jessie Conners, The "Apprentice"
Step 1: A Change in Attitude and a Change in Perspective
To begin to build your business empire the first thought that you MUST overcome is… thinking that needing help is a weakness.
I admit that I am still guilty of thinking that I can do it all, but I can also tell you from experience that this thought helped me land flat on my face.
When I started my Marketing Firm, I did the incorporation, the staffing, the management, the marketing, the service, yet my bank account was so puzzling to me. Although, I had thought that while “doing it all” I was in fact super woman, I was managing to run my business into the ground, because I wasn’t utilizing the help of other professionals and delegating responsibility.
Building a personal network means meeting, contacting and maintaining relationships with people who have the ability to help you succeed. Because most people have found themselves in your position at one time or another, they can empathize with your situation and gladly offer assistance-whether it be arranging introductions or offering advice.
This week talk to one of our Wealth Mentors and get his/her story on how they constructed their network of professionals. I guarantee you that THIS principle is the MOST VALUABLE key to watching your business grow!!
Step 2: Attend industry events
Step two in building your personal network is Go Out And Meet People!
There are an infinite number of ideas that are ready to flow through your mind and appear as cash in your bank account. These ideas are unique to you, and other individuals possess ideas, techniques, and strategy that are unique to them. The outcome in merging our talents with those of another will produce amazingly positive results!
Meeting other people with similar goals is a great way to catapult your career. Each individual comes from a different background, and interprets their situation through a unique perspective and will bring a different dimension to your quest for success.
To begin, start looking through your local trade organization's calendars for a listing of events in your area. Search to internet for Business Networking Groups (BNI) and investment clubs. Whether the event is a straight networking event or topic specific, it is an excellent way to meet others in the industry. If you don't feel comfortable going alone, get a few friends or colleagues to join you-but get out there! Make it a point to meet and talk to at least three new people (don't forget to get their business card). Follow up with the people you met in a quick next-day email. The goal is to make an impression so they will remember you the next time you contact them.
Step 3: Communication!!!
Now that you’ve met some people, attended some networking events, it is time to keep in contact with these valuable resources.
There are an infinite amount of possibilities when working with others; maybe you’ll sharpen each others business knowledge, challenge each other to achieve goals, start a business together, exchange leads, who knows how you will benefit each other??
Whether the stock market goes up or down, the real estate market is hot or cold or you live in Atlanta or Los Angeles, it is the people that make everything happen. Your wealth is never really dependant on stocks, bonds, or money in the bank; necessary and useful, or course, but only a symbol of exchange. It is all about the people, and the service, communication and attention that you provide those around you.
So, keep a black book.
Maintain an address book that includes contact information for former managers, department VP's and reputable colleagues, family, friends, and those you come in contact with through your networking groups.
Communicate with your contact list via a quick email or coffee about once every one to two months. This will keep you fresh on their minds when they hear of a new job opportunity or company that may interest you. Be sincere and equally excited to hear about their new endeavors.
Their contact can be very helpful to you as well as a reference and for simple advice. Drop them a line regularly as to keep their contact information up to date.
Building your network is essential in your business’s growth. Speak with one of our Wealth Mentor today by clicking the “Talk Now” button, and continuing to develop your knowledge base with unique ideas and strategies that equate to success!!!
