People You Need in Your Network

We can learn something from almost everybody with whom we come into contact in everyday life––a benefit both professionally and personally. People we meet may also know others who can help us and We can help them

An important first step to expanding our network is to identify the people with whom we want to build relationships. Some people we definitely need in our universal network include:

• Customers or clients
• Suppliers
• Neighbors
• Like-minded people
• People you meet by chance
• Friends
• Family
• Social Media colleagues

Write down the names of people you know in each of the seven categories who would return your email, text, call or LinkedIn invitation. Then think of a specific reason why you should contact them. For example, if you know that your neighbor is a real estate agent, tell him or her about an article you saw about trends in property values. The point is to find a meaningful way to connect with people that will benefit them.

"Give without remembering; and receive without forgetting" Paul S. Nierenberg, MD