Are You a “Go-To” Reference to Your Clients?
If Not, Why Not?
Maximizing Your Network for Success
Many people don’t realize how to exploit their networks. I’m using the word “exploit” in the positive meaning of the word. In other words, you want to get the most out of your network whenever it can work to your advantage. The reason I stressed this is because some people approach mixers with an air of arrogance or snobbery. For example, I’ve heard financial planners say that they only look for high-earning income prospects with whom to do business. While there’s nothing wrong with searching for your ideal clients, it is a gross mistake to think that people who may never be your clients cannot introduce you to the people for whom you’re looking.
A Costly DIY Mistake
Not being a very handy individual, I attempted to change the UV light bulb in my water softener — a system, I might add, that I’ve had in place for the past 14 years. Unfortunately, I not only broke the crystal tube in which the lightbulb sat, but I also managed to get water all over my basement wall. Sadly, it’s not the first time this has happened to me. Naturally, this occurred on a Saturday morning when the company that services this type of problem was closed. Still, it didn’t stop me from searching for a solution, using the resources at my disposal (in other words, my networking contacts).
The Power of a Well-Connected Network
The first person I called was Dan Luckenbaugh of Advanced Air Quality Services. In addition to being an expert in his field, Dan is also a master networker. He spends a great deal of time getting to know other people and finding resources to solve problems. He instantly recommended a YouTube video that showed me what I did wrong and how to solve the problem. Had I watched it before I attempted to change that lightbulb, that program would’ve saved me about $500.
Leveraging Your Network Beyond Business
The point is that Dan is an excellent resource to me even when I’m not actively using his services because of who he knows and what he knows. I encourage you to make sure that you take the time to get to know the people in your network so that you don’t overlook simple
solutions to problems you face in the future.
“You need to network to get work.” – Pam Witwer
(This excerpt is taken from the seminar series Networking Marketing Mastery III: Turning Contacts into Contracts.) I encourage you to watch this video here.
Special thanks to Dan Luckenbaugh, Owner of Advances Air Quality Services, for making today's blog possible!
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