11 Key People You Need in Your Networks

Have you given much thought to how interconnected we really are?

There was research done a few years ago that utilized Facebook data to determine the actual degrees of separation between two people.

Guess what they found?

Each one of us is connected to every other person by an average of three and a half other people.

Three and a half people! That’s food for thought.

So, this got me thinking about my relationships, and who makes up my own networks. And I’ve come to realize there are a few key individuals everyone should be connected with.

The People You Need in Your Networks

For many types of professionals, it’s their job to build relationships. They need to be experts at networking who can quickly identify what someone needs, and then accomplish getting it done. They’re the ones who see an opening and know how to fill the gap by bringing the right people together.

These people are super-connectors.

They take the form of various job roles, and you interact with each of them differently. You need to learn about who they are and how to best leverage your relationship with them.

Here are 11 super-connectors you should have in your networks and suggestions for how often to check in with them:

LAWYER

Why they are super-connectors: Lawyers are in a very trustworthy position and people place a lot of faith and confidence in them. They have access to opportunities through their wide networks and develop a significant client base by referrals. You NEED lawyers for a variety of things – general counsel, family matters, speeding tickets, negotiating contracts. And you should know who to call.

When to check-in: I recommend about twice a year. Reach out and see how they are doing. Ask about their business and see if there is anything you can help with. You never know how you may be able to provide value!

POLICE OFFICER

Why they are super-connectors: They are engrained in their communities and involved in the relationships of others. They hold a lot of power and the trust of many. They are well-known and know a lot about people.

When to check-in: A couple of times a year to see how they are doing. Ask about any stories they’d like to share about what they’ve worked on. Get their perspective on issues that affect them.

PERSONAL ACCOUNTANT

Why they are super-connectors: Accountants are provided with important information and are trusted resources to many. They get to know people intimately and know a lot about them. Their clientele is all word of mouth and built on trust. If you get referred by them, you should get a captive audience.

When to check-in: Obviously at least once a year when you do your taxes. If circumstances allow try and do them in person. And yes, it’s an investment of your time, but I recommend checking in with them a couple of times a year outside of their busy season. Contact them a few weeks after and see how it all went. Inquire about their ideal client and see what you can do to refer them. You never know who you might know!

INSURANCE AGENT/BROKER

Why they are super-connectors: Similar to lawyers and accountants, good insurance agents develop deep trust with their clients. They build confidence and become relied on. It’s also part of their job to build strong and broad networks.

When to check-in: A few times a year to say hello. Inquire about any particular business or focus on niche clients they have and see if there’s anyone you can introduce them to.

MONEY MANAGER

Why they are super-connectors: It’s a money manager’s job to be out and about and involved in the community and charities. To bring in business they must build the right relationships and be recognized as a valuable resource. They are in positions of authority and tend to be likeable. They also promote a reputation of honesty, dependability, and trust.

When to check-in: They will most likely check in with you! But be pro-active and try to beat them to the punch. Reach out a few times a year to say hello. See if they’re focused on any kind of niche clients and if you have referrals. Ask if you could endorse them on your social media. Question them about what needs they currently have and how you can potentially help. It will be appreciated!

HAIR STYLIST/BARBER

Why they are super-connectors: They see all kinds of people and get to know their clients. Typically, they’re on the pulse of a lot of information. How many remain silent and tight-lipped while sitting in that chair? You feel compelled to talk. And you’re usually in a pretty good mood when getting things done for yourself, which possibly makes the conversation revealing.

When to check-in: It happens naturally by the need to visit them. And when you do, spend time getting to know them. Reciprocate and ask questions, see what’s going on in their lives. Ask about funny stories of clients or interesting haircuts.

“You don’t have to know everything as long as you know people who know the things you don’t.”

Harvey Mackay

RESTAURATEUR/BARTENDER/CONCIERGE

Why they are super-connectors: To succeed in these roles you need to be very personable. It’s their job to provide customers with a great time and quality experience. If they are good at what they do, people will like and trust them, and also want them to feel happy.

When to check-in: Each time you patronize them you are checking in, which is good! Make a point to ask how you can promote their business or support them on social media. Ask about charities they’re involved with. Or just ask what’s going on in their lives and what you can do to benefit them.

POLITICIAN

Why they are super-connectors: The nature of their job is to know people. Their networks are deep and wide. They also yield tremendous influence and power.

When to check-in: A couple of times a year. Respond to some of their mass emails or campaigns. Give them constructive feedback. Let them know what people are saying about them. Ask what issues they are most focused on and how you can support them.

SPIRITUAL ADVISOR

Why they are super-connectors: They know many different kinds of people. They are benevolent and want to see good. People trust them.

When to check-in: Fulfill your duties as a parishioner. Volunteer your time if you’re able. Give back where you can. The smallest gestures really go a long way.

SCHOOL PRINCIPAL/ADMINISTRATOR/DEAN/GUIDANCE COUNSELOR

Why they are super-connectors: They collaborate with lots of different people on various tasks and issues. They are heavily relied and depended on.

When to check-in: A couple of times a year. Ask about challenges they face and what you can do to support them. Tell them that you appreciate all that they do and recognize sometimes it’s a thankless job. Be sure to express just how valued they really are.

REAL ESTATE AGENT

Why they are super-connectors: They work with many clients on all levels. And their business is based on referrals. The home buying process can be stressful! And all of the car rides together are an opportunity to build good relationships (if they are good). Realtors get to know families and what’s important to them. They also have a network of all the other services that benefit new homeowners in a new market. They put you in touch with contractors and building management companies, people around town and in the school system. Good realtors really shine.

When to check-in: Periodically. Be sure to send referrals if you know someone moving. Or if you hear something going on in the neighborhood. Anytime you can share any kind of info that might benefit them is a great time to check in.

Networking Is a Way of Life

Are you currently connected with any of the professionals I’ve mentioned? If not, you should be!

It’s imperative to recognize who these elite networkers are. Super-connectors seek opportunities to not just build bridges between connections but to also maintain its infrastructure and provide improvements. And it’s important to have them as part of your networks.

Networking doesn’t feel like a job to them. It’s a way of life for super-connectors. And they’re really good at it. And you will benefit from this as well if you correctly leverage the connection you’ve made.

And just think – if you have solid relationships with exceptional super-connectors, then you could potentially accelerate the three and a half people average – and get connected faster!