Work from Home Success Program – support networks

Work from Home Success Program Module 3 Part 3 – support networks

You’ve no doubt heard people talk about how important it is to have strong business support networks, but what does that actually mean?

It’s about connecting with people you meet in the course of your business. People you like, who can help you out in some way, and whom you can help. So that’s customers, suppliers, peers, former colleagues, and yes, even competitors.

The classic book on building support networks is Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty: The Only Networking Book You’ll Ever Need by Harvey Mackay. It clearly explains the significance of other people in business success and fires you up to overcome any shyness or reluctance.

It really is as easy as picking up the phone and inviting someone to have a quick coffee. You might fear being turned down, but you’ll find that people are very happy to talk to you about their career and industry.

Plus it’s a good way to make sure you get out of the home office and avoid isolation. Just avoid the temptation to cancel because you think you don’t have enough time!

You don’t have to meet people face-to-face to have them in your network, though. Using Skype they can even be on the other side of the world.

Building your network isn’t a numbers game, because it’s a bit pointless if you don’t keep in touch with the people you’ve connected with. Social media’s good for staying on top of what they’re up to, and exchanging bits of information you think they’ll like.