Collaboration, not competition

Network, network, network!

I say it so easily now because I understand the real benefits of networking but it wasn’t that long ago that I used to cringe at the thought of networking!

Believe it or not, it’s not something I used to enjoy.  My experiences had been of stuffy rooms with powerpoint presentations at the front by companies ultimately looking to sell their services.  I had a tainted view of networking and was reluctant to keep trying it.

Turns out I just hadn’t found the right community to network with.

After joining an all female network group that focuses on connection first, not selling, I quickly experienced all the benefits of networking.  From becoming a podcast guest, to keynote speaking, to connecting my clients with other, wonderful services.  And as a by-product of this networking, I also have made sales.  But not in a ‘I’m going to shove my business card in your face’ way (I don’t even have a business card!) but as a result of getting to know these women, understanding them, appreciating them and supporting them.

I tell you this because I harp on about community all the time and it’s with good reason.  

Surrounding yourself with people that align with your values and who can support you is so important.  Not just in your home life, but in your work life.  

I also believe that finding people who understand your business is important.  I am a firm believer in collaboration, not competition, and there are enough people out there who want to be in your tribe without stepping on anyone else’s toes.  So don’t be afraid to reach out to that lady on Instagram who you admire as she’s a few steps up the ladder to where you are.  And make sure your door is open, passing the ladder back down and making way for people to reach out to you.

Offering an open door and inviting people to the table is where the magic happens! 

Now this doesn’t mean only connecting with people with the same opinions as you.  Far from it – it’s good to be challenged in a healthy way and to look at things from different perspectives.  Invite people to the table who you may not get an opportunity to connect with on a day-to-day basis.  

Ultimately, you want to help people.  You want to give others opportunities, with your freebies, the information you put out there and via your services.  The more visible and connected you are, the better.  

So I’ll keep banging that community drum and I’ll keep shouting ‘FIND YOUR TRIBE’!

Much Love, Sam x