OPERATIONS: BUILDING YOUR NETWORK
7 Steps to Adding Value to Your Network BEING GENEROUS WITH YOUR NETWORK INCREASES YOUR INFLUENCE AND OPPORTUNITIES.
JEFF ROTH
I f you want to build a business that withstands economic downturns and grows without you constantly spending time and money to acquire new clients, then you must be intentional about your networking. If you work to add value to the people in your network, they will want to return the favor and add value to you and your business, making your business more resilient and sustainable. The way to gain influence and new opportu- nities is to be generous with your network. Connect the people within your network strategically by creating reciprocal referral relationships and new opportunities. How do you do that? Here are the seven steps: 1. Start with who you know.
2.
Attend events with a generous mindset.
Every relationship has the potential to be valuable, and some are more valuable than others. Many times, we initially don’t know which ones have that potential and don’t give the relationship the time and attention it deserves. Being intentional with the people you already know, like, and trust gives you the power to create new opportunities, build influence, and grow and sustain your business. At a minimum, put everyone you know in a database or CRM (Customer Relationship Manager) so you can communicate easily with those people. Use the CRM to remind you about important information such as your ideal key referral partners, birthdays, anniversaries, and conversations you have had.
3.
Be intentional with the people you meet.
4.
Share new networking opportunities.
5.
Meet one-on-one with members of your network.
6.
Do what you said you would do.
7. Share content regularly so your network knows you are an industry expert. Let’s take a closer look at each step. STEP 1: START WITH WHO YOU KNOW Many people are not being intentional about the relationships they already have, including their friends and family.
48 | think realty magazine :: july - august 2024
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