The Three Habits That Can Make You A Master Connector

HABIT 3: Manage Your Network

HABIT 2: Embrace Social Media to Nurture Connections

HABIT 1: Ask Great Questions

A powerful network is dynamic—ever growing and ever evolving. Without providing it regular attention, you’ll limit your ability to harness value for you or others. A few tips to actively manage your network include:

• Grow it deliberately: Have a deliberate process for growing your network. A must do: always follow up. The act of following up is a behavior that sets true connectors apart from would-be connectors. How many times have you had engaging conversations with people at an event and neither you nor they have followed up? If you said you’d send more information or make an introduction, keep your promise. It’s the most effective way to build an active network.
• Diversify your contacts: Take time to review your stable of connections and proactively seek opportunities to fill those gaps. How much of your network consists of people who are different from you in terms of background, age, career level, professional expertise? Be aware of gaps in your people portfolio, and identify any emerging sectors or industries that are not covered in your network.
• Cultivate and stimulate: A strong network requires constant stimulation and attention to provide value for others and yields more opportunities for you. Are you introducing people to each other who might not otherwise connect? Every Friday, I book 15 minutes on my calendar to connect one of my contacts with another by writing an email introduction with meaningful context. This practice keeps a connector “sharp” when it comes to identifying opportunities for others.
• Practice yields rewards: Vibrant networks of connections are a powerful mechanism for unlocking value in ideas and organizations. To become a master connector requires an active versus passive mindset. It takes patience and adopting a long-term view. Ultimately, it’s a skill that is available to all. Putting into practice these three habits of asking great questions, using social media and managing your network has helped me become a better connector and continues to help me foster relationships that have benefited me and others. I’m confident that it will help you too.

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Enjoy the article by  Margaret Molloy, global chief marketing officer for Siegel+Gale.  I thought you might like it.

WindRiver Strategies (WRS) is an executive coaching firm delivering proven strategies and Emergenetics to inspire personal, professional and business growth.  WRS is led by Chief Strategist, Kevin McDaniel, who has been coaching for 28 years with a "steel and velvet" technique that is science based, fun, direct and compassionate.  Our intent is to create a partnership with our clients in a thought provoking and innovative process that creates sustainable business growth and inspires personal and professional development.  (Please check out the blog.)

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