In addition to building your tribe, another powerful way to help your career is to build your cheerleaders.
Cheerleaders are people that you don’t meet regularly, and who are a bit further out of your immediate network.
However, they are champions to your cause. They believe in what you and/or your organization is doing, and will promote you when they can.
You could call them a type of influencer, only you don’t normally need to pay them. Since they appreciate the work you do, they simply want to share the good word with their network without expecting compensation.
Of course, you should always show your gratitude for their contributions. As a thank you, consider offering them early access to the products and services you offer, or offering them free memberships to your community. Sometimes a heartfelt “thank you” works wonders.
Sometimes cheerleaders are chosen, such as part of your marketing strategy or outreach. Most of them just appear on your radar. Either way, nurture these relationships, as cheerleaders make the best referrals.
The takeaway
Building your community involves multiple types of people. Cheerleaders are a great source of enthusiastic individuals who help promote you and possibly refer business.