It's always important to have a powerful, stable network of people in your life. Friends, associates and acquaintances are always assets.
Before I offer seven tips I have learned over the years in building this type of network, here's a bonus one: GET OUT AND SOCIALIZE! You cannot expect to meet anyone or bond with people by just sitting around and watching Sportscenter and Maury all day. Yeah your dog may be your best friend and protector. However, you need other types of creatures and characters in your life.
1. Make a list of everyone you know (friends, classmates, family, co-workers, employers)
There is definitely power in numbers. However, try to initially limit this list to about 50-100 people, even if you have a large family like myself. Go through the list and see who you have had the most contact with over the past five years. If there is someone you feel you need to connect with more, take that opportunity. You could have a new best friend, mate, mentor, or even a reference.
2. Join a social group of some kind (church, gym, volunteer work, committee, or sports team)
This is a perfect way to meet live people and interact. You get to know them in a relaxed setting and you have a foundation and common ground. These are connections that can last long after you've moved on.
3. Social Media
Facebook has proven great for reconnecting with people from various walks of life. Of all the social networks, it is probably the best all around for socializing. LinkedIn is great as well, especially for gaining professional contacts. Yes social networking has its cons but it is around for good and evil. Utilize it for good.
4. Revisit your list and even your circle of friends, family members, and phone contacts.
This is a weeding out process. From here, you want to determine who is your A list and what purpose they serve in your life. Are they that 3rd cousin you barely know and only see every couple of years? Or is this your long time friend of 20 years that knows you well and will do nearly anything for you? I find a regular evaluation is in order. It is how I keep my circle tight and clean out my social networking and phone lists. In short, I sort of treat it like a business, say Drew LLC. You must also continue to maintain your standing.
5. Have a versatile circle
This will help you grow more as a person, and possess many connects in high places. Obviously you want to be around folks with whom you think alike and can associate well with. However, don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and have contacts in different area codes, religious backgrounds, financial standings, and even ethnic and political views. One can learn a lot from tolerance of various ways of life.
6. Don't intentionally burn bridges
This goes back to the list and contact trimming. Just because you don't talk to a person that often or you keep your distance doesn't mean you should cut them out of your life. Try falling back, rather than falling out with them. Do your all to stay cordial and friendly with them. This often comes to play in the workplace, church, and at family gatherings.
7. Go to events and social gatherings in your area.
This is the season for cookouts, BBQs, festivals, and places with a plethora of people. Often these outings and shindigs are perfect for connecting with others. You are getting out and interacting, letting people see a social side of you, and why they should be in your life also. Just as with #1, share contact information. I have business cards for my writing, but I use them for social purposes as well. My email, phone number, and blog address are on my cards, as well as my picture. You want to make an impression, even if it's just one person.
Building a network can be hard and time consuming. However, the effort is well worth it. You never know when you may need simply someone to talk to, a reference or a question about a speciality area, or just help in general. It is hard to beat simple socializing.
Wallflowers do not grow or blossom. Therefore, do not allow yourself to rot alone. Have someone, or many someones, in your corner. There is great comfort and peace in knowing you are surrounded with like minded, caring individuals who choose to be around you and accept your strengths and flaws.
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