How can you help clients build a network for problem solving?

1 Identify the gaps

The first step to help your clients build a network for problem solving is to identify the gaps in their current network. A gap is a missing or weak link that prevents your clients from accessing the information, advice, feedback, or referrals they need. For example, your client may have a gap in their network if they lack contacts in a certain industry, niche, or market. Or they may have a gap if they don't have mentors, peers, or experts who can challenge them, inspire them, or hold them accountable. To identify the gaps, you can use tools such as network mapping, SWOT analysis, or stakeholder analysis. You can also ask your clients questions such as: Who do you need to know to achieve your goals? Who can help you solve your problems? Who can introduce you to new opportunities?

3 Activate the network

The third step to help your clients build a network for problem solving is to activate their network by using it effectively. This means engaging with their network regularly and strategically, and asking for help when they need it. Some ways to activate your clients' network are: updating their network on their progress, achievements, or challenges; asking for feedback, advice, or recommendations from their network; sharing useful information, resources, or opportunities with their network; thanking their network for their help, support, or referrals; giving back to their network by helping, supporting, or referring others; creating or joining mastermind groups, peer coaching circles, or accountability partners with their network.

4 Benefits of a network

The fourth step to help your clients build a network for problem solving is to remind them of the benefits of having a network. A network can help your clients: access more information, knowledge, and expertise; get different perspectives, insights, and ideas; find more opportunities, leads, and referrals; increase their credibility, visibility, and reputation; enhance their skills, confidence, and motivation; overcome obstacles, setbacks, and failures; achieve their goals faster and easier.

5 Challenges of a network

The fifth step to help your clients build a network for problem solving is to help them overcome the challenges of having a network. A network can also pose some challenges, such as: finding the right people to connect with; building trust and rapport with new contacts; managing time and energy for networking; dealing with rejection, competition, or conflict; maintaining and nurturing relationships; balancing giving and receiving value. To overcome these challenges, you can coach your clients on how to: be clear about their purpose and goals for networking; be authentic, respectful, and curious when networking; be selective, focused, and intentional when networking; be proactive, responsive, and consistent when networking; be generous, grateful, and reciprocal when networking; be flexible, adaptable, and resilient when networking.