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Unleash Power of Your Entrepreneurial Network Claudette Rowley Copyright 2002
Successful entrepreneurs rely on a "can-do" attitude and masterful networking to forge new ground, follow their visions and make them real. Combining strong initiative with a network of colleagues, mentors and experts, they capitalize on human resources to build their business and bring their vision to life.
If you unleashed full power of your network, how would your business multiply?
Top Five Benefits of Activating Your Network:
- Resource Mobilization. Ask for what you want and need to move your business forward. Use question "Who do you know who?" to reap benefits of financial, business, or emotional assistance. By forming a specific request, you build trust and credibility. If you aren't sure what you need, request a brainstorming session with a trusted colleague to open up an avenue to clarity.
- If You Don't Ask, The Answer Is Always No. At a conference I attended, a film maker shared her experience making a documentary about women heads of state - presidents and prime ministers. An audience member asked her how she approached these leaders. Her response: "If I didn't ask, answer was always no."
- Watch "No" Turn Into "Yes." Recognize that "no" doesn't always mean "no". When you make a request of a colleague, mentor or expert, you've planted a seed in that person's mind. Don't be surprised when he or she approaches you and says, for example, "I don't have time to review your business plan right now, but I CAN hook you up with someone who's a crackerjack at it …" By and large, people enjoy helping others; it allows them to participate in your entrepreneurial vision.
