When you own your own business your personal and professional life often overlap. Over the last month, I’ve shared our ongoing housing issue. It occurred to me that all the help we received with restoration, rebuilding, and renting a temporary place is because of those I have in my network, both personal and professional. It's during such times of crisis that the true strength of connections becomes evident.

The Power of a Strong Network

1.     Resource Mobilization: One of the primary advantages of a robust network is the ability to mobilize resources swiftly. Whether you're dealing with a personal crisis or a professional setback, having a network that spans various industries and expertise can be a game-changer. In my case, the assistance in restoration and rebuilding efforts came from individuals who were well-connected in construction and real estate.

2.     Referrals and Recommendations: A strong network is not just about who you know, but also about who knows you. The power of referrals and recommendations cannot be overstated, and recommendations from those you trust are invaluable.

3.     Emotional Support: Entrepreneurship can be a lonely road. Personal and professional challenges can take a toll on one's emotional well-being. A strong network provides a support system that extends beyond business dealings. During the past six weeks, the emotional support from friends and mentors within my network has been a pillar of strength, reminding me that I wasn't facing the challenges alone.

4.     Collaborative Opportunities: The collaborative potential within a network is often underestimated. Beyond immediate problem-solving, your network can open doors to collaborative ventures, partnerships, and joint initiatives.

How to Expand your own Network

I’m fortunate that I’m originally from the area and still have family and friends here from childhood, so that automatically creates a built-in network. However, I also lived in many different places after college, and I was away from WNY for over 20 years. I returned to the area about 15 years ago and developed a strong group of amazing individuals.

Aside from naturally building my network through friends, neighbors, and volunteering, I’ve grown my network in other ways. Here are a few ways I have found to meet new people and enhance relationships:

Engage in workshops and seminars relevant to your industry. These events often attract professionals who are passionate about staying updated on industry trends. Workshops and seminars provide a more intimate setting for networking, allowing for meaningful conversations.

Join Professional Associations: Become a member of professional associations related to your industry. These organizations often host events, conferences, and networking opportunities exclusive to members. Being part of such groups can enhance your credibility and visibility within your industry.

Seek and Offer Mentorship: Both seeking and offering mentorship can be valuable for expanding your network. Mentorship relationships often lead to introductions to other professionals and provide a platform for knowledge exchange.

The key to successful networking is not just about accumulating contacts, but building meaningful relationships. Consistency, authenticity, and a genuine interest in others will contribute to the strength and effectiveness of both your personal and professional network. Networking in all parts of your life allows you to continue to grow, meet new people, strengthen long-term friendships, and have a battalion of people to help you should the need arise.