When you have a single goal in mind, a unique ambition that you want to fulfil, it can be hard to imagine others sharing the same passion as you do.
Of course, your journey is very personal and your life achievements are yours alone but others on similar journeys can be useful while taking you slightly out of your comfort zone.
There’s a reason networking is so popular, this is because it works. Some people feel awkward introducing their services and skills to others as if they are pushing a hard sell. In actual fact, if you do attend a networking event, you’ll be invited to share your own expertise because along with people who want to advance their career, there are also companies looking for someone of your skills.
The type of connections you make depend on the business you’re in, however as a general rule, these types of connections can further enhance your career.
Extra Expertise
When you have a business idea you might want to guard it with your life. Many entrepreneurs try to manage all aspects of the company despite having little experience in certain areas. It was Richard Branson who said that no entrepreneur is alone, as every successful one has a great team behind them.
If you hate doing tax returns, customer service or sales calls, if you’re no whizz at building websites or copywriting, admit it to yourself first. Then you can reach out to people who specialise in these subjects and learn from them. Maybe you could even exchange services.
The Press
No matter what career you pursue at some point you will need the press. Whether it’s to shout about your company’s new acquisitions or to expand the reach of your online marketing endeavours, the press are an invaluable tool.
Journalists from the local paper can help spread the word, while online you should keep an eye out for bloggers related to your industry and social media people who have a lot of followers.
This not only ensures you build connections for when you need them most, it also gives you a daily dose of news, keeping you permanently in the loop.
Reach to the Next Rung on the Ladder
It’s also a good idea to connect with people who are already where you’d like to be, whether that’s in 6 months or 10 years. By following their journey and observing their attitudes you can learn from their successes and their mistakes.
and a final caution…..Avoid Energy Zappers
It’s unfortunate but true that there are people out there who will be jealous of you. They may feel green with envy when you shout about an achievement or they may pass hurtful remarks to bring you down when they notice your new found confidence. Now is the time to cut ties with these people and to surround yourself with those who have no reason for the green eyed monster.
It is a difficult transition but you’ll find that as you remove connections with the pessimists, more optimists will gravitate towards you. You’re on an incredible journey and your focus needs to be positive, you should never have to feel guilty for being fabulous.
Jenny Garrett is the Award Winning Coach and founder of Reflexion Associates, a leadership and coaching consultancy. She’s also the author of Rocking Your Role, a how-to guide to success for female breadwinners, Creator of the online coaching programme, the Happenista Project and co-founder of Rocking Ur Teens CIC