What do you hope to accomplish from your relationships with your network? Everyone hopes for a mutually beneficial partnership, correct?

You’re hoping that if you have a problem of some sort, the people in your network can help you solve it by directing you to the right people, resources, or information. And that’s awesome! But as you build your strategic network, it’s important to ask yourself if you’re returning the favor. A network is only successful as long as it’s mutually beneficial, so your list of contacts is going to get pretty short if you’re doing all of the taking and none of the giving. That’s why it’s important to approach every partnership by asking yourself how you can add value to that other person’s life. Because if you really think about it, the people who help others solve their problems are truly the real value!

Let's visualize this example, 

Think for a moment about your vehicle. It’s powerful. It’s comfortable. It can easily fit multiple people in it. It can almost take you anywhere you need to go. But eventually, it’s going to run out of juice. On its own, your vehicle can’t do anything about that; it lacks the ability to fuel itself. You, consistently filling it will gas is what causes your vehicle to run. Fuel is a key ingredient your vehicle needs to recharge, succeed, and fulfill its purpose. And when you fuel your vehicle, you and your vehicle become the perfect partnership! What can you do to provide the proper fuel that your network needs in order to perform in the best manner possible.