Network Leadership: Becoming a Hub

One of the most effective ways to build and maintain a strong support network is to become someone who provides value to the network itself—what researchers call a "hub" or "connector." Network hubs are people who actively facilitate connections, share resources broadly, and create value for many people simultaneously.

Hub Behaviors

Making Introductions: Regularly connect people in your network who could benefit from knowing each other. Sharing Resources: Pass along opportunities, information, and resources to people who could benefit. Organizing Events: Create gatherings that bring together people from different parts of your network. Creating Content: Share insights, lessons learned, or useful information that benefits multiple network members. Facilitating Collaboration: Help organize projects or initiatives that create value for multiple people.

The Benefits of Hub Behavior

Being a network hub provides multiple benefits: - People are more likely to reciprocate when you've helped them multiple times - Your reputation as a connector attracts high-quality people to your network - You gain visibility into opportunities across your entire network - You develop valuable skills in relationship management and facilitation - You create goodwill that provides support during your own challenging times

Hub Sustainability

Hub behavior requires significant energy investment, so it's important to approach it sustainably: - Focus on connections and resources where you can add genuine value - Set boundaries around your availability and capacity - Ask for help with organizing and facilitation when appropriate - Rotate intensive hub activities with periods of lower activity - Ensure you're also receiving support, not just providing it