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Creating a Values Foundation

Creating A Values Foundation

A primary circle or Power-of-Ten Circle is comprised of people who: 1) you like, 2) know, 3)trust and then, also, are: 1) ready, 2) willing and 3) able to exchange opportunities with you. It’s been over a decade now since I left the world of speaking, coaching, and training on the subject of networking in the business world. I don’t miss the many noisy, often unproductive networking events I either ran or attended. But I still believe in the benefits of knowing how to best build a successful network of people who have similar and complementary values to you and who believe in the importance of strategic, focused, networking.

Again and again, throughout the years, I have seen the results of building a strong network early in life. Both my husband Craig and I continue to receive upwards of ten wonderful introductions (what I call “the new referral”) to new clients. For me, I receive amazing introductions to new authors looking for help with writing, publishing, and launching their books. For Craig, it’s introductions to new clients looking for top talent in the restaurant equipment manufacturing space. Here, year after year we keep reveling at the power of our vibrant networks built years ago. But what about you? What can you do to create your own rich networking circle of support? Read on.

Tips to help you create the optimal primary circle:

  • If you’re finding it difficult to hone your list to 10, use some practical considerations. For example, who just doesn’t have the time or ability at the moment to form a relationship? (They may have too many other personal or professional commitments.)
  • If you’re deciding between two people, compare them on these categories: values, Networlder qualities, exchanger qualities, their emotional connection to you, and whether they’re enjoyable to be around. Select the person who has the larger number of traits from those categories.
  • If you have fewer than 10 people, that’s OK. Networlders value quality. You still have a good basis to grow a strong Networld. The secret is to form strong bonds with those chosen few who have the potential to exchange with you.

Don’t let your primary circle gather dust! Your connections will evolve and change over time. What’s important that you start building today. This is the gift to yourself that will result in doors opening for you in surprising ways for your career or your business.

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