What are some ways to build relationships with leaders who share your values and vision?

1 Identify your values and vision

Before you can seek out leaders who share your values and vision, you need to clarify what they are for yourself. What are your core beliefs, principles, and goals? What are you passionate about? What are you trying to achieve in your career and beyond? Write down your answers and use them as a guide to evaluate potential leaders to connect with. Look for leaders who have a similar or complementary mission, purpose, and direction as you.

3 Reach out and initiate contact

After you have done some research and followed some potential leaders, you can reach out and initiate contact with them. You can use different methods, such as email, LinkedIn, Twitter, or a mutual connection, to introduce yourself and express your interest in their work. However, you need to be respectful, professional, and genuine. Don't just ask for favors or advice. Instead, offer value, appreciation, or feedback. For example, you can share how their work has inspired or helped you, ask a thoughtful question, or offer a relevant resource or suggestion.

4 Build rapport and trust

Once you have initiated contact with a potential leader, you need to build rapport and trust with them. You can do this by being consistent, responsive, and supportive. Follow up with them regularly, but not too frequently, and show that you are interested in their work and challenges. Respond to their messages or comments promptly and politely. Support their work by liking, sharing, or commenting on their posts, or by attending their events or webinars. You can also ask for feedback, advice, or referrals from them, but make sure to show gratitude and reciprocate.

5 Seek opportunities for collaboration or mentorship

The ultimate goal of building relationships with leaders who share your values and vision is to collaborate or learn from them. You can seek opportunities for collaboration or mentorship by proposing a project, a partnership, or a referral that aligns with your common values and vision. You can also ask them if they are open to mentoring you or if they know someone who can. However, you need to be respectful of their time and resources, and show that you are willing to contribute and grow. You can also offer to help them with their work or goals in exchange for their guidance or support.

6 Maintain and nurture the relationship

Finally, you need to maintain and nurture the relationship with the leader who shares your values and vision. You can do this by staying in touch, providing value, and celebrating successes. Stay in touch with them regularly, but not too often, and update them on your progress and challenges. Provide value by sharing relevant information, resources, or opportunities that can benefit them. Celebrate their successes and achievements, and acknowledge their support and influence. You can also send them thank you notes, gifts, or testimonials to show your appreciation and respect.