We all need help on our way to the top. No matter where you are in your career, everyone can gain a higher success rate with someone to lean on. A professional support system, or an informal board of advisors, can help you achieve short and long term goals and assist you with continuous learning, training, and self-reflection. The foundation of a healthy support system is a network of peers and colleagues with a variety of skills and aptitudes in your industry or field.

Make a plan before you begin growing your professional network. Reflect on what you want out of your networking relationships and ask yourself some difficult questions before you begin your quest to build or strengthen your informal board of advisors. Questions such as these can clarify the path you would like to pursue:

  • What skills can I pass onto others?
  • What is my personal management style and what qualities would benefit others?
  • What is my personal attitude towards helping others grow their personal network?

 

Advantages of a Strong Support Network

You can enhance your journey down a career path with the addition of fresh ears and access to a different set of knowledge. Creating a career support system promotes a better sense of well-being and stronger coping skills. Giving and receiving support is a fundamental need we all can benefit from and need.

Don’t Be Afraid To Ask for Guidance

Don’t be nervous asking for help from a colleague or peer. At any given point in their career, a business leader may hit a roadblock they can’t get out of alone. Many of the world’s greatest leaders surround themselves with good people they can count on for support. In the end, it is all about putting together a group of people with complimentary skills to build an informal board of advisors that is beneficial for everyone.

Where Do You Find People To Round Out A Network?

Growing your network is not as daunting as you might think. Consider the obvious networking sources like industry specific professional groups and using LinkedIn. According to a national study, a quarter of respondents use LinkedIn as a way to make business connections.  Joining a board of directors or leading a philanthropic organization are great ways to grow your professional network. Most importantly, be willing to ask for help and let influential people in your life know you value their opinions and would appreciate their assistance.

 

Need assistance in creating a support network? We provide coaching services and more for business leaders. Contact us today!