Hi Penny - Thank you for asking the question. My experience has been, once I've defined what I need help with, I begin to ask people in my network if they know someone who can help me with ...... to date someone usually knows someone who knows someone. I ask if they can make introductions for me and then I take it from there.

If I'm honest with myself, it is still very scary to ask for help, because 'shouldn't I know this stuff, I'm a business professional for goodness sake." I have found once I have defined what I could use help with, it is generally a two to five hour investment with someone who I wouldn't have met otherwise.

Additionally, I get to hear the other person's story, how they got started, what drives them, where they are now. It is exciting to watch their faces light up with excitement and hear about their challenges. If they want help, I can help or know someone who can. If I don't know anyone immediately, I begin by asking a few people in my network. Thank goodness people take the time to respond or forward me onto someone who can help me or the person I am asking on behalf of. I continue to be willing to reciprocate with the same passion, enthusiasm and dedication.

Please know I will only refer someone onto a friend, colleague or network member if the person has defined what they need. I don't want to damage my relationships/friendships with people who aren't committed to the relationship. So far it has worked out well.

So here's an opportunity for the Alignable Network . Ask for help from the 700+ members (I think) of experts within this group. Many of us are local and if we are not we have technology to help us. The Q&A portion of this network is a great place to start.

Happy Holidays and a Prosperous 2017!