When people think of networks and networking in a professional context, they tend to think about conversations with strangers, exchanging business cards and adding connections on LinkedIn.

We argue there is more value in focusing on a few important people who can truly help you succeed, and investing time in those relationships. We call that small group of people your Personal Boardroom.

That’s why we suggest there are only six to twelve people in your Personal Boardroom. Investing time wisely with them means you can spend less time networking, and more time getting on with your job.

These are the 12 roles you need in your Personal Boardroom.

Information roles

Customer voice – someone who helps you understand markets, customers and business opportunities
Expert – someone who gives advice based on their sector or challenge-specific expertise
Inspirer – someone who inspires new ideas and brings fresh thinking
Navigator – someone who can tell you who you need to know and who does what

Power roles

Unlocker – someone who provides access to resources (e.g. money, data, people’s time)
Sponsor – someone who speaks out to endorse you and your ideas to senior or important people
Influencer – someone who works behind the scenes to win support and helps you get things done
Connector – someone who makes introductions and connects you with people who can help you

Development roles

Improver – someone who gives candid, constructive feedback on your performance and development
Challenger – someone who challenges your decisions and thinking and helps you see your errors and blind spots
Nerve-giver – someone who strengthens your resolve at difficult times and gives you a sense of purpose
Anchor – someone who keeps you grounded and holds you to account for the balance between your work and the rest of your life

You may not always be able to offer anything back to members of your Personal Boardroom. Sometimes you simply can’t reciprocate. But that’s OK, because you can always help someone else. And by doing so you are ‘paying in’ to a community supporting each other to be better at what they do.

This is about giving to others as well as asking for help.

You don’t have to say yes to every request. You can use the 12 roles to identify where your strengths lie and decide how you want to specialise as a giver.