Introducing the network map

- Our network is how we get things done in a complex world and we found that creating a visual network map is a great step in helping you analyze the strength and effectiveness of your network and the relationships within it. You probably have a number of different networks. These will include the network of people you need to engage with to succeed in your job, your career network and your social network. If you're going to construct a network map, it's good to start by choosing just one of these and perhaps it's the one you use most at work. A good network starts with a purpose as the way that you engage with people in these different types of networks will depend on what you're trying to achieve. You can add any information that you think is useful to your network map but here's what we use in our training programs. To get started, please draw two circles, one small, and one big, whilst placing your name at the center of the map. Now add the key people in your chosen network to the map based on physical distance. So people based in another country or location would be in the outer ring and people in the same office would be in the inner ring. Try doing this for your network. If physical distance isn't a factor in your network, then choose another criteria or just place everyone evenly across your piece of paper. First, consider how important these relationships are to achieving your purpose. Label each individual either high, medium or low in terms of importance. Designate this by putting H, M or L. Now think about the quality of the relationship that you have with these individuals. Would you describe your relationship as strong, neutral or weak? Add this information to your network by labeling each individual S, N or W. Finally, draw lines between you and the individuals within your network. These lines represent the direction and strength of information flow. So a thicker arrow would indicate more information flow and the arrowhead tells us which direction the information is going. For example, you might be giving people a lot of information and not getting back much in return. You can keep adding more information that you find useful but this will give you a basic network map. Most people find that by completing a physical map, it makes the network much more tangible and enables them to identify potential gaps and challenges. For example, where a highly important relationship is weak or you lack a relationship in a critical area. It's useful to update your map when your objectives or role changes and use it as a live tool for continuously improving your network.