Key steps you need to build a powerful network
We often think of networking in a professional sense, but having a powerful network is so vital in all areas of our lives. If we hope to embrace our personal strength and be the best version of ourselves, we need to be surrounded by positive energy and people that support us.
Building a network that influences you and encourages you to grow, doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a slow and steady mission, but one that is worth the work. That said, there are some keys steps you need tom implement when building a powerful network:
Make meaningful introductions
Whenever you meet someone new, always strive to make your first impression your best impression. Be your best self. Making a meaningful introduction means that not only are you more likely to stick in their mind, but you could end up forming a genuine relationship with them.
Make time for those who matter
Life can get busy, but it’s important that you make time for those who matter to you, as they’re the ones who will stick around and have the biggest impact on your life. Even if it is as small as dropping them a text message every now and then, keep the important people close to you so you can keep influencing each other’s lives in positive ways.
Always be kind
The best way to surround yourself with kind people, is to always be kind yourself. Negative thoughts and energy will only have a detrimental impact not only on those around you, but on your own mental wellbeing. So always be kind and treat others as you wish to be treated. This will ensure you surround yourself with the right people – people who appreciate and support you.
Get rid of the toxic people in your life
Some relationships just aren’t meant to be. Whether that’s professionally, romantically or even just as friends. If there are negative people in your life that are causing you to feel tension or stress, it could be time to let them go. Surround yourself only with people who are going to have a positive effect on you, even if this is just a handful of people. It’s better to have a small and powerful network, than a vast and weak one.
Pay it forward
Whenever you benefit by receiving a good deed, try participating by paying it forward – that is, doing a random good deed for someone else. Adopt an abundant mindset, so that whenever you give, you believe will receive back in copious ways. This will transform your networking experience and how you connect with others. Has someone helped you out in the past? Make sure you return the favour. That said, don’t just wait for them to do something for you! Pay it forward. Recommend your friend for that job, offer some much needed advice. Whatever it is, always help others, because you never know when you might need their help in return.
Make discomfort your friend
Start to practice doing things that make you uncomfortable and push you out of your comfort zone. Take some risks to grow. As Neale Donald Walsch says so well,
“Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.”
So make an effort to speak to that seemingly unapproachable person at your next networking event, volunteer to lead the meeting, or stand up and speak to hundreds of people at a conference. Start to share your story and be seen. You will soon see how comfortable you become with discomfort. Look for opportunities, instead of hiding – show up and be seen, it will do wonders toward you building a powerful network.
