One of the things you’ll learn as you start to understand the crazy online networking world is just how interconnected everyone is at the top. At the top, the air is pretty rarified, and there aren’t that many people – and no matter what niche or industry, it’s only natural that the leaders know who each other are, and may even have business relations.
If you want to get there yourself, you will also need to master the art of the schmooze and making friends as you move up the ranks. No matter what area of online business you’re in, no matter what niche, the path to becoming a credible authority is partially paved by being part of a recognized group of leaders.
How do you do this? It’s simpler than you make think. Being a memorable person is the key rule – and making genuine connections by being a real person is the easiest way to do this. Nobody likes fakers, after all!
You should also listen with intent, showing people that you are genuinely interested in what they have to say. This also has the benefit of helping you to understand what really makes people tick and respond to them, making them feel valued.
Cultivating a personal culture of humility and honesty is also another great way forward: people like honest, straightforward people, especially those who can be direct without necessarily blowing their own trumpet.
Combine this with optimism and great ideas, and you’ll soon find that it is you that people flock to when they need great ideas, when they need help, when they need advice… and that’s how you really get to the top. It’s easier than you think!