There are few fields that reveal the power of networking than in business. Without a network of referrals or contacts, it’s difficult to make headway into a new industry, especially when the industry is filled with established businesses. With a bit of help from someone who plays golf with the CEO of a shipping company or who was childhood friends with the director of the supplier, a budding business benefits greatly from a good network. The strength of weak ties allows the entrepreneur to have access to resources not otherwise available to them.

A network must be properly maintained, however, in order to be effective. The edges will not be useful unless your connected nodes are motivated to help or unless they are informed about your business. The stronger the tie, the most useful the contact, so it’s necessary for there to work closely with them in order to get the best results. The gatekeeper or bridge to other networks makes it much easier to reach other people and other resources, rather than having to go through other paths.

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