How to Be a Power Connector

1. Build a strategic network of 155 key relationships

You have only 150 people total that you can keep up with regularly, and that includes friends and family.

The 5+50+100 model. Power connectors organize their networks into three concentric circles: Top 5 (closest daily connections), Key 50 (important weekly contacts), and Vital 100 (monthly check-ins). This structure allows for efficient relationship management while maintaining a diverse and robust network.

Quality over quantity. Focus on building deep, meaningful relationships rather than accumulating superficial contacts. Evaluate potential connections based on shared values, ability to provide mutual benefit, and alignment with your goals. Regularly assess and update your network, moving people in and out of circles as relationships evolve.

• Top 5: Closest family, friends, and business associates
• Key 50: Important relationships that represent significant value
• Vital 100: Diverse connections across various ecosystems

2. Develop a power connector mindset to forge meaningful connections

The power connector mindset: people must know you, like you, and trust you.

Authenticity and caring. Power connectors are genuinely interested in others and seek to help them succeed. They approach relationships with warmth, empathy, and a focus on adding value. This mindset allows them to build trust and rapport quickly, even with strangers.

Overcoming mental barriers. Many people struggle with networking due to shyness, fear of rejection, or feeling they have nothing to offer. Power connectors recognize these barriers and work to overcome them by reframing their approach. They view every interaction as an opportunity to learn, help, or make a meaningful connection.

• Be authentic and bring your best self to every interaction
• Focus on how you can help others, not just what you can gain
• View strangers as potential valuable connections
• Overcome fears by practicing and reframing your mindset

3. Target and engage with the right people in the right ecosystems

If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go with others.

Identify key ecosystems. Successful power connectors recognize the importance of being in the right "rooms" or ecosystems. These include family and friends, passions and interests, career or profession, government and politics, finance, media, industry, and community. Understanding and accessing these ecosystems is crucial for achieving your goals.

Strategic targeting. Before attending events or reaching out to new contacts, prepare by researching the people you want to meet and the value you can offer them. Develop your "share" (personal story), "value-add" (what you can offer), and "ask" (what you need) to make meaningful connections quickly.

• Map out the ecosystems relevant to your goals
• Research key players and potential connections in advance
• Prepare your personal story, value proposition, and specific requests
  Use the "Three Golden Questions" to engage effectively:
  1. How can I help you?
  2. What ideas do you have for me?
  3. Who else should I talk to?

4. Add value first and consistently to nurture relationships

Giving first is rare and builds trust in a world where talk is cheap and people mistrustful.

The value-add system. Power connectors focus relentlessly on adding value to their relationships. They do this by providing appropriate, unique, and consistent value tailored to each connection's needs and goals. This approach builds trust and strengthens relationships over time.

Follow-up and follow-through. Maintaining strong relationships requires regular contact and consistent value-adding. Power connectors have a system for following up with their network, from daily check-ins with their Top 5 to monthly contact with their Vital 100. They always follow through on commitments and keep their word.

• Add value in various forms: information, introductions, opportunities, support
• Tailor your value-add to the recipient's needs and stage of business
• Follow up within 24 hours of initial contact
  Maintain regular contact based on the relationship's importance:
  • Top 5: Daily
  • Key 50: Weekly
  • Vital 100: Monthly

5. Leverage your network by connecting your connections

Power connectors do everything possible to make their connections work.

Play 3-D power chess. Power connectors excel at linking people within their network to create maximum benefit for all parties. They think strategically about how connections can help each other and actively facilitate introductions and collaborations.

Create power triangles. One of the most effective ways to add value is by connecting two people who can benefit from knowing each other. This "triangulation" strengthens your relationships with both parties and increases the overall value of your network.

• Identify potential synergies between your connections
• Facilitate introductions that create mutual benefit
• Use your network to solve problems and create opportunities for others
• Always follow up after making an introduction to ensure a positive outcome

6. Master online and in-person networking strategies

The digital revolution and societal shifts have brought us to a new period. It is called the Relationship Era.

Leverage online platforms. Use LinkedIn, Twitter, and other social media to maintain and expand your network. Share valuable content, engage with others' posts, and use these platforms to research potential connections before meeting in person.

Maximize conference networking. Prepare thoroughly for conferences and industry events. Research attendees, set clear goals, and have a strategy for making meaningful connections. Follow up promptly with new contacts and add value immediately.

• Use LinkedIn to map and expand your professional network
• Engage on Twitter to connect with thought leaders and share insights
  Prepare thoroughly for conferences:
  • Research speakers and attendees
  • Set specific networking goals
  • Prepare questions and conversation starters
• Follow up within 24 hours of making a new connection

7. Women can excel as power connectors by playing to their strengths

Fortune is in the follow-up.

Leverage natural strengths. Women often excel at building relationships, collaborating, and adding value consistently. These skills are crucial for power connecting. Women should embrace these strengths while also developing skills in strategic networking and self-advocacy.

Build diverse networks. Women tend to network more horizontally (peer-to-peer) than vertically. To advance, they should focus on building relationships with senior-level contacts and potential sponsors. Additionally, women should support other women by making introductions and sharing opportunities.

• Embrace collaborative and relationship-focused approach to networking
• Develop skills in strategic networking and self-advocacy
• Build relationships with senior-level contacts and potential sponsors
• Support other women through introductions and shared opportunities
• Use "relentless pleasantness" when asking for what you want

Last updated: September 20, 2024