The self-leader does not work in isolation. He may be completely independent or have a few direct associates, yet he will tap into other networks as sources of both business and support. He will also provide business and support for his network. He may, in fact, be in close communication with hundreds of other people, remaining independent and at the same time enjoying the benefits of interdependency. He will keep his web-site current and his list of e-mail addresses and telephone numbers up to date. He may keep a blog or send a regular newsletter to everyone in his network, keeping them informed of his projects and inviting them to do the same. He may even participate in business-networking groups that meet regularly over breakfast in order share knowledge, contacts and business opportunities with one another. The possibilities of networking are endless.
For a self-leader, networking and interdependency is not a luxury. It is vital to his financial viability and his ability to remain independent of large organisations. He may make contracts with major corporations or governments, but he will be careful to avoid falling into the trap of ‘putting all his eggs in one basket’. Once a big organisation knows that a small supplier or contractor is dependent on it for his economic survival, the screws will slowly tighten. Do not expect any major corporation to show compassion. They are strictly beholden to their shareholders and the bottom line. They did not get to be big by being kind. The corporate world is essentially predatory. We don’t have to hate corporations, any more that we hate lions or boa constrictors. They are what they are, and we must have no illusions about what motivates them and how they operate. We do, however, have to understand their raison d’être so that we do not get devoured in the process of getting close to them. The self-leader jealously guards his autonomy and organises his affairs and his contracts accordingly.
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