Time to Clean Up Your Network?

by Skip Cohen

Last Friday, I shared an idea about cleaning up your online galleries. Until I run out of ideas, I'm going to share a new idea every Friday about some aspect of your business that needs a little attention. And while I know business is back in full swing for many of you, none of these ideas are rocket science, but implemented will help you build a stronger business.

Your greatest marketing tool is relationship building. All of you have networks of people you've met, worked with, and appreciated. But a great network needs a little care and feeding. In the old days, we all had a Rolodex of business cards. There was no Internet, email, or social media outlets - just a collection of business cards on everybody's desk.

The advantage of building a great network in the first place is all about support - not just for you, but as a two-way street, both giving and receiving. It's about having resources to draw from when you need help and also being there to lend your expertise to people in your network.

Unfortunately, so often, we'll go to chase down somebody and have obsolete contact information or be embarrassed to reach out when we haven't talked to the person in a year since the last convention, first meeting, etc.  

It's time to review your network. Think of your network as a target, with the center being those people you trust the most. The next circle from the center might be your closest associates, staff, etc. The next ring out should be vendors, etc. The second and third rings from the center of that "target" are your most important. This is usually where everyone is out of date regarding contact information.

Here are some ideas to keep your network vibrant and alive!

• Identify twenty people in your network who you really can't live without. This isn't just about respect and friendship, but people with skill sets that compliment your own. These are the twenty rockstars you want to be able to count on. Make it a point to keep in touch with them. Just start at the top of the list and work your way down, hitting each of them once a month. Note: This doesn't have to be a big deal and can be as simple as just hitting the "Like" button and making a comment about something they've shared on social media. 
• A great network goes beyond friends and associates. Make sure you have contact information for the key staff at the vendors whose products/services you use. In your network you should have at least one person representing every piece of gear and software you use - retailers, distributors, sales reps, your lab, accountant, attorney - they ALL play a role.
• Keep in touch via email. It's so easy to just drop a one-liner and keep in touch.
• Pick up the phone! Just be sensitive to friends being buried in work when you call, and don't be offended if you just happen to catch them at a bad time.
• Be active in social medial! Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter are terrific for keeping in touch! Check your friends and followers and go off in search of those people in your network.
• Track birthdays. Checking Facebook birthdays and anniversaries is my first stop EVERY day.
• Websites and Blogs: Make it a point to follow the work of people in your network. It's not that hard to do if you put aside time each day. It's a great break from the stress of deadlines and projects. Spend a few minutes looking at images a friend in your network has recently shared and follow their blog.
• Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner: I consider myself the biggest "lunch slut" in the industry, and conventions, conferences, and workshops are all coming back. NEVER eat alone! Being able to catch up to friends and associates over a meal is a great way to build your network and expand your knowledge of each other's expertise.
• Be generous with your time. When somebody asks for help in your network, do the best you can and give them as much time as they need whenever possible.

Happy Friday! Have a great weekend and to all you Dads out there, Happy Father's Day.

---