Tightening Our Circle of Influence

“When you are seeking to bring big plans to fruition it is important with whom you regularly associate. Hang out with friends who are like-minded and who are also designing purpose-filled lives. Similarly be that kind of a friend for your friends.” – Mark Twain

Strategies abound this time of year and with the exception of our preferred weight, most are focused on "increase". We talk about increasing our income, the size of our business, our knowledge, our influence, etc. As I look toward 2016, there is one specific area in which I plan to make a substantial reduction -- associations. On the surface it might sound somewhat negative, but in reality it is a necessary strategy.

Where we spend our time and who we spend our time with, are important factors in maximizing our effectiveness and ultimately, the profitability of our business. We need to get out and tell our story. We need to build trust with key referral partners and strategic alliances. We also need to be sure we are doing so with the right people, in the right places, at the right time, and for the right reasons. All meetings, events, and associations are not created equal -- and the longer we're in business the more apparent this becomes. Our goal is not to simply fill the marketing calendar, but to leverage it. It is a matter of quality over quantity. And while we somewhat instinctively know this to be true, a careful examination of our current practices can be somewhat eye-opening.

Our circle of influence, and the people we allow to be a part of it, can be a great predictor of our business success -- or at the very least impact the rate at which we grow professionally and personally. We definitely need to find good mentors and like-minded people, but we also need to be selective in terms of how these associations fit into our goals, plans, and strategies. We need to constantly ask ourselves whether this association or this group is moving us toward our objectives or pushing us farther away. We simply cannot be all things to all people and tightening the circle helps us invest our time, talents, and treasure more effectively -- which substantially increases the quality of our business relationships and quite possibly, our reputation.

Is it time to take a meaningful look at your associations and where your business development time is spent? Is what you see truly what you want? Is it time to make some changes and tighten up the circle? For me, the answer is yes.

Your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Also featured on LinkedIn on 12/29/2015

About the Author: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is also a Certified Behavioral Consultant. As a member of LIFE Leadership, he is passionate about helping people from all walks of life discover the joy of learning, the joy of leading, and the joy of building a profitable business.