Maximize your network: 6 ways you can leverage your network to expand your business

If you were asked how powerful your current network is, what would your response be?

There is a lot of emphasis placed on being “connected” or knowing highly influential people. And this makes many underestimate the power of their existing networks.

Not everyone in your network has to be powerful or well-connected. The reality is that your network is better off having a few not-so-highly-placed people who will strongly advocate for you than having a big but weak network of ‘connected’ individuals whom you cannot even get to pick up your call.

There are six roles people in your network can play to support you on your career or entrepreneurial journey. These six roles are Cheerleader, Mentor, Informant, Adopter, Advocate, and Connector.

The Cheerleader provides emotional support by being a listening ear and giving words of encouragement.

The Mentor provides advice and coaching and asks you questions to help you refine your thinking and improve the quality of your solutions or skill sets.

The Informant is physically present in your target industry or market. They give you a heads-up on upcoming business opportunities or job openings that you can take advantage of.

The Adopter is always the first to buy from you whenever you have a new product. They also encourage others to use your products and services.

The Advocate actively promotes you and your services on their platforms, and in their networks, openly and everywhere they can.