PARTICIPATE IN
NETWORKS
Networks are established for
collective benefits and are most successful and effective
where there is give and take by participants and members.
This involves sharing your experience through dialogue and
interaction with other partners, as well as learning from
theirs. For instance, you could attend debates and
discussion groups to contribute your ideas and experiences
or offer to speak at a conference.
A network's strength in any particular area or service
depends on how actively its partners exchange information
with each other and reciprocate. For example, if you
receive advice from a network partner, be prepared to offer
your own help in the future.
Partners who are willing to pass on skills to each other
will establish the network as a centre of excellence or
expertise and facilitate future collaborations. If you have
been pleased with a particular supplier, training provider
or consultant, let your partners know why or arrange for
them to give a presentation of their services.
A well-run network will thrive if its participants play an
active role in keeping the network topical and relevant. If
you have experienced the benefits of a network consider any
other contacts who would enjoy them - talk to other
businesses about what you have gained and introduce them to
the network.