Here's how you can establish a robust professional network as an executive.

"Your network is your net worth." - Porter Gale Align your network with your values and goals! Seek out industry conferences, join professional associations, and engage in forums. Connect with like-minded professionals to build meaningful, lasting relationships. ???? How do you find value-aligned connections? Let's exchange ideas! ??

Engage with peers who share your values and vision to foster meaningful and supportive relationships. Surround yourself with 'eagles'—individuals who inspire and elevate you to greater heights—rather than 'chickens' who might hold you back. This alignment not only enriches your professional journey but also propels you toward achieving your highest potential.

This is great advice. It is important to select your contacts and a great starting place is alignment rather than what they can do for you

To cultivate a strong network, active engagement is key. Engage consistently by putting time and effort into attending events, participating in discussions, and offering valuable insights. Invest in building relationships by listening actively and being genuinely interested in others' perspectives. By being of value and offering support to your connections, you can establish a reputation as a proactive and valuable member of your professional community.

Attending industry events and conferences and actively participating is a great start to build your network. The key is being consistent and following-up, even to "touch base" and NOT pitch. Becoming part of professional associations in your industry also opens up to many networking events to further connect with others. After meeting in-person, I like to connect on professional platforms like this. Be consistent and you'll build a strong network that will enhance your career.

Amidst the hustle of professional networking, don't forget the power of a personal touch. Building rapport through authentic interactions is key to developing strong relationships. Listen actively, show genuine interest, and be curious about the experiences and perspectives of others. These efforts not only demonstrate that you value the relationship but also lay the foundation for trust and mutual support in your professional network. As Jim Collins emphasizes in "Good to Great," having the right connections can significantly propel you and your organization towards exceptional success.

I once worked with a coach who knew I was overstretching myself financially to be able to work with her. Not only did she go above and beyond her promise to deliver, she also acknowledged this by sending me a handwritten card in the mail to my home. It was such a personal and touching gesture that was also unforgettable. Genuine connections require something extra that will make you stand out. As a result, she has my loyalty - a quality that sometimes gets forgotten.