Sandra Yancey

One of the greatest secrets to your future success is to understand the power of your network. Make no mistake about it; everyone who makes it has a network.

It is no surprise to realize that much of what you learn today will quickly become obsolete. Technology and business are changing and evolving so rapidly. We simply cannot learn what we need to know fast enough to keep up with the whirlwind of changes we face each and every day. Here's the good news: it's OK. You will find that the success of your future has more to do with knowing "who" versus knowing "how." That's right. Powerful people are no longer defined by their fancy titles, expensive clothes, or corner offices. Rather, powerful people are defined by their ability to make things happen and get things done, both for themselves and others.

Your network should be built on the foundation of some key constituents. The earlier you identify and build a solid relationship with them, the more stable and sustaining your network will be. Take inventory of your relationships now and be sure you can identify one mentor--someone who picks you and whose role is to provide you "access"; two role models--people you admire and wish to emulate; and three connectors--people who easily and willingly connect people to other people. Each one of these constituents will play a unique and important role in your continued growth and development.

To establish a growing and evolving relationship with your core constituents, you must first recognize, believe, and behave according to the philosophy of "It takes teamwork to make the dream work." It is through the spirit of abundance that you first demonstrate your own character and integrity of helping others. After all, how can you expect others to do for you what you are not first willing to do for them? The point here is, powerful networkers believe in "giving first." They constantly and consistently look for ways to share contacts, resources, information, and leads without the expectation of anything in return. They live the law of the universe; that is, you must give in order to receive. And, you inherently know that when you give freely and without expectations, you will be rewarded ten-fold.

Savvy networkers show up! They put their face in the place; they are seen in the scene. They are attentive and alert wherever they go, whether it is a business function or the dry cleaners. They always where a smile (the only universal language) and generate conversation. They ask great questions and listen more than speak. They always try to leave a conversation with the gift of a lead handwritten on the back of their business card. They know that through helping others, they are helping themselves, and by helping themselves, they can repeat the cycle. In the end, success is not about ME; it's about WE. It really does take teamwork to make the dream work.

I wish you the best of luck in all you do. Just remember, "Give first, share always."

Sandra Yancey Founder and CEO eWomenNetwork, Inc.

"The #1 resource for promoting and connecting women and their businesses."

Join us for one of our Accelerated Networking events taking place monthly in cities all across North America. Simply go to eWomenNetwork.com and click on "Attend a Networking Event" for a location nearest you!

"It takes teamwork to make the dream work."