The biggest mistake I see in networking, is when people stop. Either they’ve settled for mediocre, they’re enjoying a season of plenty or they think everything is going great.

What happens when you become too comfortable? You stop networking, pay less attention to finances and other things happening in the background. When things are going okay – or even great – it’s easy to start totally ignoring your network, along with a lot of other things! And before you know it, all those things come crashing down and your “net” is not there to break your fall.

Look, you and I both know there are seasons of plenty and seasons of famine. Someday, you might not have that great job or stable income. Life happens! You can choose to blissfully ignore the fact a day might come when you no longer have those nice things. Or you can choose to prepare to make it through that season of famine with ease.

In my life, I’ve had prosperous times and some really horrible times. And I know bad times are going to come around again eventually! It took me 10 years to learn the lesson and figure out I should prepare for the famine, not squander everything during seasons of plenty.

Think of a time where you’ve heard something over and over again, but you still haven’t learned the lesson. It’s okay! Don’t get discouraged, thinking “Man, I should have started this a year ago… or 5 years ago!” That’s not important. It is important for you to actually start applying the lesson today. Start that preparation now!

Here are two really simple ways to keep expanding your circle of influence, whether you are in times of plenty or not.

1. Pass out business cards everywhere you go. If you’re at a party, be sure to exchange numbers with people. A lot of business cards have blank spaces to jot down notes about who you meet. That way you remind yourself of exactly who they are and what is important to them. It makes it more personal when you contact them or send a thank you note, “Hey ____, was great meeting you the other night. How was ____’s soccer game?”
2. Take care of your virtual imprint. One easy way to grow your network and expand your circle of influence is through social media. It is one of the easiest ways to stay in contact with people and connect with them on a semi-regular basis. Just be careful what reputation you are putting forth – does your digital footprint motivate people to want to work with you or purchase a service or product from you? A lot of possible employers use social media now to see if you’re the type of person they want in their company!

Take this chance to learn the lesson and actually start applying these skill sets to your everyday life. Not only will it open more doors for you now, but it will help pull you through the hard times in the future.

You’ve probably heard the saying, “It’s about who you know.” And that is the truth. But what are you doing to increase your contacts and to “know” more people? What are you doing today to grow your influence – for now and the future? Let me know in your comments below and don’t forget to Like and Share today’s message.

For more tips and strategies be sure to join us for The Dani Johnson Show to learn how to expand your circle of influence and create a strong “safety net.” You can find the show on your TV and radio and please remember you can always stream today’s show right here on our website.

In great faith,

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