Ideas on leveraging your network

HAVING a strong network, and LEVERAGING it can be two different things entirely. If you're anything like me, here is how the difference makes itself obvious.

I know a lot of people, I provide support willingly, I refer strong professionals to each other with great enthusiasm.
But I rarely know (or dare to), channel that in the direction of my own business.

It's one if the things I want to break through together; The PERCEIVED taboo of the dreaded "self promoting".

The term sounds negative in itself. I instinctively get a little "icky" feeling about it.
But the truth is we probably don't talk enough about what we do, and/or we are not clear enough as we feel conflicted in doing it.

Let's start with banning the term"self promoting" and reframing it with "speaking of what we feel passionate about".
Once we've done that, here are a few ideas on how you can leverage our network and increase your business growth through the opportunities a strong network can bring you. You're in a safe space, this is where you want to stretch your comfort zone first❣️ 

🎤 Perfect your pitch 🎤

With that I don't mean a long exhaustive (exhausting?) one. I mean three sentences that you can use in a conversation easily, and that you have tested on those you trust, your MasterMinds circle is the ideal place. Keep fine-tuning until you find a formula and that feel good about. Don't shy away from REALLY listening to the feedback you are getting and keep going until you are proud of what you are saying.
What problem do you solve? Why is it important?

👀 Enhance your visibility 👀

Now your message is clear, you need people to know about it. The members directory is one of the tools use for those that are already part of our community. LinkedIn, or your favourite social media platform also work well. Think of any networks where you like the people, respect them and make sure they know about you. It has to be clear people know how to work with you and where to find more information if they want to.

✋ Ask for support ✋

The #1 Networking mistake according to Forbes is that people "forget to ask for support". This means they create strong bonds but never actually say what they need from their network, assuming people will "know". Formulate a clear ask, and push yourself to use it where relevant -unapologetically. Encourage others to do so too. Let's normalise that we can't do it alone. Nor do we want to.

Time to test them out! Please let me know how you get on. If you need more support book a 1:1 workshop on leveraging YOUR network specifically where we put our heads together and come up with a solid plan!