Saturday
Sep122009
Who's Got Your Back?
Saturday, September 12, 2009 at 9:09PM It was a pleasure to attend the ERE Fall Expo. During the events, it was clear that people were committed to building stronger relationships. I was impressed with the non-stop networking, referrals and the best practices that were shared.
It reminded me of Keith Ferrazzi's latest book, Who’s Got Your Back. Keith discusses the value of having three trusted relationships who will hold you accountable, offer mutually beneficial relationships and unbiased feedback in order to reach your true potential.
In this fast-paced digital world of connecting through several social media networks, is it better to have three true lifelines or an extensive reach of millions?
tagged ERE, loyalty, networking
ERE, loyalty, networking 
Reader Comments (15)
I want both. Is that selfish and narcissistic of me? Yes. Is it possible? Maybe.
It isn't selfish. I think you can have both and you are an excellent example of how to do it.
Great analogy Jenny and I agree...it's possible depending on the individual.
Traci, you are a fireball of networking energy. It was so nice finally meeting you face-to-face!
Jenny - Good question! I agree that it is possible (and valuable) to have both! I also think it's a good idea to think about using social networks with a broad reach to expand your ability to connect with people who will "have your back." I know that I've met many more than three friends whom I would consider "lifelines" as a result of participation on social networks that some may consider "impersonal." (You included!)
Miriam, your great coaching skills always shine through in your writing. I'm continually amazed with the professional relationships and trust I've built though LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, etc. before I meet the individual in-person.
I'm lucky to have one already and am building another now. And thanks to SM my true lifelines are expanding to more than 3 - after all - "it takes a village" and I think that's more than 3.
GREAT topic Ms. Jenny! It was amazing to see the power of Social Networking at ERE this past week - everything, whether it was Twitter, LinkedIn, or Facebook - provided a warm intro for all of us "in person" at the show.
IMHO ... the more the merrier when it comes to professional connections that become personal via Social Networking. Too often it is easy to network in person but then nothing comes of it. I truly believe that the Social Networks provide all of us an opportunity for personal growth as we interact with our professional connections on a level that has never been seen before - all of which leads to accountability, new experiences, growth, etc.
As far as Keith's stance on the magical number of 3 trusted connections ... I think that should be a goal for anyone but by no means a limit. His book sounds like a great read - Amazon.com here I come!
Thanks for sharing your ideas, Leanne and Mike. I agree that having a supportive village of many lifelines is the ideal outcome in which its members can all help each other succeed. You both are well on your way!
Jenny,
I have learned over the past year it is my inner/personal circle that gives me the support, energy, confidence that allow me to work further out in the circles. Without the core friends nothing else (matters) happens.
Go Gophers!!!
P.
I think it's most important to have a small, trusted network of close relationships who know you well enough to provide specific encouragement, as well as constructive criticism/feedback. I don't know if that magic number is 3 or less, but it's important to have people in your life that can speak the truth to you with love & kindness. However, while I need close friends and confidants, I also need to be inspired by others and sometimes put in check by those who are looking at my message with unfiltered eyes. So like others who have commented - I want both!
J. Great topic. I wonder if the "number 3" is gender related.
Madeline Albright once said "there is a special place in hell for women who don't help other women"
Do you think that means we are wired to seek both?
Debbie - Good point! I do believe that there is a special place for women that do not help other women. In my experiences, those women don't help a lot of men either. ;)
Paul - You continue to pay it forward and I'm not surprised you have a close circle of trust. Hopefully, we will get to meet in Minneapolis one of these days. I would to talk business, life and sports with you! Go Hawks! (Yes, the Iowa Hawkeyes!) :)
Jennifer - Your comment really resonated with me "it's important to have people in your life that can speak the truth to you with love & kindness." I strive in my relationships to be honest without being rude - sometimes it doesn't always work out that way! You are someone that I respect and I appreciate your friendship.
Thanks for this post! It was extremely informative and helpful! I just learned everything I need to know today.
You're welcome. I really appreciate your comment.