What would you say if I told you you are wasting one of your biggest assets? You’d probably want to know what it was! You see, every human has a circle of influence. In fact, the average person knows 2,000 people by the time they are 20 years old.

That means every day you have the power to influence thousands of people just by stating an opinion, sharing life experiences and recommending other businesses.

You can choose to ignore your circle of influence, like the majority of people do. Or you can utilize this resource to build your business, find a job, look for a date or expose your product or service.

I imagine you’re reminded of a few slimy “friends” you once had on Facebook who wouldn’t stop pushing their business in your face until you were so exhausted you finally “unfriended” them. But that isn’t what I mean. You can utilize your influence without resorting to shameless self-promotion.

What I am talking about is creating a mutually-beneficial relationship. How many times have you heard an acquaintance, friend or family member express a need for something? They’re looking for a hair stylist, they just put their house on the market… etc.

What you do is become a connector. Help your friends fill their needs! Know someone who is hiring and another person that is looking for a job? Refer your friend.

I’m a firm believer that what you hand out, you will get back. So when you give referrals, who do you think is the first name they will think of when referring within their circle of influence? Becoming a resource for your friends not only increases your value, but it’s essentially setting up free advertising for yourself. Not only that, but you are helping the people in your life and strengthening those relationships.

Marketers are always trying to get to your list. Think of it this way – Abercrombie isn’t about getting YOU to buy their clothes. They are about getting you to advertise for them. That’s why they put their label on the outside. You are advertising their clothes to your circle of influence. So if these marketers find your list so valuable, why don’t YOU use your own list???

Building a list and using the resources that are right in front of you will open so many doors and opportunities: jobs, loyal clients, better relationships and more! You should be consistently building and adding to your list of resources.

Start asking “Who do I know?” You’d be surprised by the number of people you actually know and the possible resources you are wasting. Activate that circle of influence today by leaving me your comments below and Liking or Sharing today’s message. And don’t forget to join us for lunch today on The Dani Johnson Show at 12 pm ET/11 am CT.

In great faith,