Power of Networking

Have you heard that saying that your net worth is directly related to your network? 

I recently read this short article on LinkedIn about the importance of social capital and networking in your career. It got me thinking about the importance of creating and maintaining relationships throughout your career. 

Here are some suggestions on how to build and sustain healthy relationships outside your office. As a private practitioner, it can sometimes feels like we are working in isolation - especially single owner practices. Making a point to build in social interactions with your colleagues is helpful in both staving off feelings of isolation and increasing your referrability. People refer to others they know, like and trust AND happen to be top of mind. 

1. Start with colleagues you already have established relationships with and invite them to connect one-on-one over coffee, zoom, or lunch. 
2. Create a list of colleagues you hear others speak about in your community or stand out to you. Reach out to them via email and share how you have heard positive things about them, their contributions to the profession or your community, and invite them to connect. 
3. Create a hub for professionals in your community to gather and host quarterly networking events. These can be done in person or via Zoom. 
4. When you connect - think of others in your circle who may be a positive or beneficial connection and offer to provide an email introduction. 
5. Find ways to regularly schedule meetings (quarterly, monthly, or bi-annually) with people so that you remain connected. 
6. Participate in mastermind groups with other professionals. These folks may not be therapists, but could be a wonderful referral source. 
7. Remember to stand out with a personal touch. Thank people for their time with a handmade or handwritten card. 

There are so many benefits to growing your inner circle. From a business perspective, you can create many more referral sources, options for consultations, potential for collaboration, and make meaningful friendships.