How can you use your network to increase your influence?

Your network is your influence. Who you know, and what they think of you, gives you the power to connect, to mold opinion, to sell, recruit, do business or get a recommendation. Your circle of influence is more than the people you know, it's all the people they know. But remember that the biggest contact list on the planet means nothing if those people aren't motivated to take your call and help you. The network is useless if you don't cultivate value-added relationships. How? Send them a useful article, ask them for their advice, remember their families and reach out to them when they have a need. You become more than a 'contact', you're a friend. When you have a value-added relationship, people will go out of their way to help you.

People often massively overestimate the level of effort needed to grow their network. It's not that difficult! Joining online communities through LinkedIn is free. Joining clubs and organizations both in school and at work are also typically free. Many public organizations for growth are also free, or at least very affordable. All of these places provide ample opportunities to grow your network and establish relationships with other peers in the community and around the country. You can even go one step further and attend conferences, which many companies will be happy to pay for in the name of personal development. It never hurts to ask! Lastly, though networking can be intimidating, everyone approaches it differently. Take your time!

"Haste makes waste". It is important to always verbalize and share what you can contribute to others in the network. Also, it is essential to be willing to contribute to the network in the spirit of giving, even if it does not immediately benefit you. By being aware of these points, you will make it easier for those who need your support to find you and rely on you. Then, as opportunities come, you can work on business together or get their support when you need it.

Stepping out of your comfort zone can be an incredible way to use your network and increase your influence. It's important to remember that opportunities are everywhere, and you should always be aware of what's going on around you. While working at a financial services company, I randomly attended an event held by the women's services group. The event was phenomenal, and I inquired whether I could participate further - despite being a man. Lo and behold, everyone was allowed to get as involved as they wanted! I ended up becoming a leader in our facility, organized many events, and helped extend reach to get more men involved in the group. All because I attended an event that I happened to walk by, and seemed intriguing. You can too!