The Unused Network
Your network is your net worth. This is true and also useless unless you actually use the network. Most professionals have a network they are not leveraging. They know people who could help them. They know people who know things they need to know. They never ask. The network sits dormant while they struggle alone.
Why People Do Not Use Their Network
People do not use their network because they feel like they are using people. They do not want to be the person who only reaches out when they need something. They do not want to be a burden. They do not want to ask for favors. These concerns are valid and also preventing you from accessing one of the most valuable resources you have.
How to Use It Without Feeling Like You Are Using People
Use it reciprocally. You help people in your network as much as they help you. You do not only reach out when you need something. You reach out to share useful information, to make introductions, to be useful. When you do need help, you ask specifically. You do not ask for vague help. You ask for a specific thing from a specific person. The person can say yes or no. The ask is not a burden. It is an opportunity for them to be useful.
The Fix
Map your network. Ten people who could help you with specific things. One person who knows about investing. One person who knows your industry. One person who has started a business. One person who is a expert in something you are not. Then for each person, think about what you could offer them before you ask. Then ask specifically.
