Since I announced Network Appreciation Day last week, I've been thinking about who in my network I would write about today.
Personally, it's difficult to single out any individual because I wouldn't be at this point in my business without the help of so many people. But I do have a special place in my heart for two new friends I met this year, but feel I've known forever: Carrie and Andy Robinson of CRG Leadership Institute.
They first contacted me when Smart Networking was released to invite me as a guest on their Career Wisdom Radio show, and I had a fabulous time.
When my husband and I ending up moving to Naples, FL where they live, Carrie immediately invited us to join her Nordic Pole Walking group on Wednesday mornings, and suddenly we went from knowing nobody in town to having 20 new friends sharing a fun activity. In addition to being an executive recruiter, Carrie recently started College Edge to help high school and college students get a competitive edge in their budding careers.
Andy, who authors the excellent Career Success Blog, has been a great supporter of Smart Networking, recommending it to clients in his successful executive coaching practice. This summer, he introduced me to preeminent consultant Dave Carpenter, who has me involved in an amazing opportunity that I'll be announcing in early 2010.
Dave immediately connected me with Bob Burg, who's classic Endless Referrals has been a favorite of mine since I started my business. Now I'll be interviewing Bob about his newest bestseller The Go-Giver, co-authored with John David Mann, on my next Smart Networking Inner Circle coaching call. I would be much more star-struck, but he is such a nice, down-to-earth guy!
Even as I write this, I'm in awe of how one connection can lead to so many new points of contact and so many opportunities and friendships.
So take some time today--whether publicly or privately--to honor the folks in your network. Let them know how much you appreciate them.
