In what ways other than serving as a source of referrals can my network(s) benefit me?

Here are nine key ways the members of your network can help you:

1. As a pool of potential advisory board members for a new venture
2. As candidates for group of "proof-readers" or providers of cover testimonials for the book you've written
3. As a focus group for a study or survey you want to conduct
4. To find investors for raising funds for a new venture
5. By introducing you to new people in their network (like LinkedIn but more active and personal)
6. As a source for referrals for new business (assumes you provide them specific written guidance on exactly what you are looking for)
7. By providing a sounding board for a new concept or a challenging problem
8. As a source for references and testimonials
9. By providing friendship as you move through your career (and life in general)

Tip: Cultivating and maintaining your network is an important task and time well spent. Regardless of how altruistic you believe your network is toward you, it's essential that to receive assistance and support from a well-maintained network, you are obligated to reciprocate and always "give back" to your colleagues. As the saying goes about relationships, "you must make deposits before you can expect to make withdrawals."

© 2010 Institute of Management Consultants USA