Are You a Millionaire or a Pauper?

You’ve heard the quote “Your network is your net worth”. How would you define your LinkedIn network? Does it make you a millionaire or a pauper?

If I were to answer that question, I’d say I’m a millionaire - maybe even a multi-millionaire.

When I started here in 2009, I was in the middle of a job search journey. The first few hundred I connected with were all on a similar journey or somehow in the job search arena (recruiters, hiring managers, etc.). ?My goal at that time was to get in front of as many people as possible.

I assumed that SOMEONE would know an employer who would want to hire me. In truth, it was all about ME at that point.

In 2010, I completely shifted gears out of job search and into owning my own business and my connecting was more targeted but still in growth mode.

That’s the way it for almost everyone that comes to LinkedIn for a specific purpose. They spend their time in connection growth mode.

Unfortunately, this is where so many people get off track.

“Your network is your net worth” does not mean that a bigger network is better. In fact, you could argue it means just the opposite. It’s the QUALITY of your network that determines your net worth.

I’ll go one step further:

Caring for your network by staying engaged, interested, helpful and attentive is what adds value others, to your network, and ultimately your net worth.

I define a valuable, quality network this way:

1.????? People you like and trust.

2.????? People you’re in the process of getting to like and trust.

3.????? People you can help.

4.????? People you want to help.

5.????? People who need your help. (Not quite the same as #1)

6.????? People who want to help you.

The word help here shouldn't be confused with the sales person that can says they can "help you 10X your business or guarantee 20 more sales calls a month. or asks in an InMail "Can I send you clients?" before they even type the word 'hi'.

Think about all those spammy invites you receive daily. The ones that within seconds of you clicking “accept” you have a message with their pitch. Those people do not add any value to you and your network. Those people aren't helpers. But you already know that.

Providing help is being of service, sharing information, making introductions, answering questions, referring you, engaging, being interested in what's going on around you, and yes, even sometimes actually reading your post and adding a thoughtful comment.

Caring for your network by staying engaged, interested, helpful and attentive is what adds value to your network and ultimately your net worth.

When you add value, others will add value. And SURPRISE! They will value you. When that happens, then you know you are a Millionaire.

So, back to my question, are you a Millionaire or a Pauper?

#relationships #valuablenetwork #linktosuccess #likeandtrust

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FYI:? This article was written by me, without the assistance of Ai.

Finally: I am not endorsed by, certified by, sponsored by or affiliated with the LinkedIn? Corporation in any way. I am a long-time user, who has learned how to use this platform with the help of many other experts, who like me, have learned how to use this platform.