{"id":3083,"date":"2025-12-13T14:46:00","date_gmt":"2025-12-13T14:46:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/?p=3083"},"modified":"2026-01-17T15:19:56","modified_gmt":"2026-01-17T15:19:56","slug":"develop-your-champions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/networking-101\/champion\/develop-your-champions\/","title":{"rendered":"Develop your Champions"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Effective Networking Strategies in 4 Simple Steps<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Networking shouldn\u2019t feel like collecting business cards that go nowhere. Inside H7, you have a clear pathway for turning first-time connections into Champions that reliably grow your business. In this post, we\u2019ll break that pathway into four simple steps so you can use H7 with confidence and know exactly what to do after each meeting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Join us for the Develop your Champion Workshop led by Clay Hicks. DYC is held monthly over zoom and is for ALL Members of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.h7network.com\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.h7network.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">H7 Community<\/a>. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.addevent.com\/calendar\/lP617042\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.addevent.com\/calendar\/lP617042\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Register for the next one<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-image3083_3dc1cb-8e .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image3083_3dc1cb-8e\"><figure class=\"alignright size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Develop-your-Champions-Workshop.png\" alt=\"Visual overview of the H7 Connect, Serve, and Ask\u00ae networking framework showing the four steps to building Champions: initial connection at an H7 meeting, first CSA one-to-one, second CSA one-to-one to deepen trust, and ongoing collaboration through a Champion Recurring Meeting Agenda.\" class=\"kb-img wp-image-3084\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Develop-your-Champions-Workshop.png 500w, https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Develop-your-Champions-Workshop-400x400.png 400w, https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Develop-your-Champions-Workshop-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Develop-your-Champions-Workshop-96x96.png 96w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How H7 Helps You Turn Contacts into Champions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>At its core, H7 isn\u2019t just about \u201cmeeting people.\u201d It\u2019s about building <strong>Champion Relationships<\/strong>\u2014people who you&#8217;ve earned mutual trust with, meet with monthly, and you&#8217;re focused on collaborating together to drive more success in business. Champions are people that you intentionally desire to increase your lead generation with. Never doing business alone is why H7 Network was created in the first place back in 2008.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/networking-101\/referrals\/building-stronger-referral-networks\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/networking-101\/referrals\/building-stronger-referral-networks\/\">Connect, Serve, and Ask\u00ae (CSA)<\/a> approach is the engine behind that. Instead of jumping straight to \u201cCan you send me referrals?\u201d or &#8220;Are you looking to buy what I&#8217;m selling?&#8221;, you follow a clear, repeatable path:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Connect<\/strong> deliberately<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Serve<\/strong> first, without conditions (trust earning opportunity for you)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ask<\/strong> clearly and specifically, in a way that makes it easy on others (trust earning opportunity for the other person)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>When you follow this path through a series of intentional one-to-ones, you move from \u201cnew contact\u201d to \u201ctrusted champion\u201d in a way that feels natural, professional, and sustainable. H7 gives you the environment, but <strong>these four steps<\/strong> are how you turn it into real, predictable growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A Champion is someone who:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p>&#8211; Knows you well enough to trust your character and competence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8211; Meets with you consistently (monthly) with a shared agenda.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8211; Intentionally \u2018thinks about\u2019 and \u2018looks for\u2019 opportunities for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8211; Feels that you do the same for them\u2014mutual, not one-sided.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Develop Your Champions\" width=\"720\" height=\"405\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/KrRF3ra1VEc?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The 4 Steps to Success with Your H7 Champions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. The Initial Connection with Another Member<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Your journey with a future champion usually starts in an <strong>H7 meeting<\/strong>. This is where you <strong>identify potential champions<\/strong>\u2014people you\u2019d like to know better and possibly collaborate with long term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead of thinking, \u201cWho can send me referrals today?\u201d, shift your mindset to:<br>\u201cWho in this room could become a Champion for my business over time?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Look for: Are they a Center of Influence for your target markets or industries? Do your worlds overlap enough that you could genuinely help each other?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Then, before you leave the meeting, do <strong>one critical thing<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Schedule a <a href=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/networking-101\/referrals\/building-stronger-referral-networks\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/networking-101\/referrals\/building-stronger-referral-networks\/\">Connect, Serve, and Ask\u00ae<\/a> One-to-one before you start passing introductions or asking for referrals.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>Trust comes before transactions. You don\u2019t want a brand-new contact making introductions for you without knowing who to refer you to or knowing you well enough or being comfortable enough to do so\u2014and you don\u2019t want to risk your own reputation doing that for others either.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-image3083_7019ef-40 .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image3083_7019ef-40\"><figure class=\"alignright size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/FUEL-500.png\" alt=\"Equip new members with the essential tools and knowledge to advance relationship development and achieve unparalleled success within the H7 Community, fostering meaningful connections and empowering personal and professional growth. \" class=\"kb-img wp-image-3086\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/FUEL-500.png 500w, https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/FUEL-500-400x400.png 400w, https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/FUEL-500-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/FUEL-500-96x96.png 96w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading3083_89c35d-f8, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading3083_89c35d-f8[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading3083_89c35d-f8\"]{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading3083_89c35d-f8 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading3083_89c35d-f8[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading3083_89c35d-f8\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}<\/style>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading3083_89c35d-f8 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading3083_89c35d-f8\"><strong>Reflection questions for Step 1:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What qualities do you seek in a potential champion (Center of Influence), and how could they complement your journey?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How can you present yourself authentically to establish a genuine connection from the beginning and for for maximum engagement?\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Do you have your 3-Word Introduction and 30-Second Commercial ready to go? (<a href=\"https:\/\/h7-network.mn.co\/spaces\/13596681\/page\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/h7-network.mn.co\/spaces\/13596681\/page\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Attend F.U.E.L. Orientation to prepare your communication<\/a>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do you have your COIs and Prospects ready to be communicated easy enough for others to be able to picture what you&#8217;re asking for in their own minds instantly? (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.h7network.com\/networking-training\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.addevent.com\/calendar\/lP617042\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Schedule yourself for Activate H7 Training<\/a>)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/networking-101\/champion\/master-networking-step1\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/networking-101\/champion\/master-networking-step1\/\">Master Networking: Step 1 \u2013 Make Initial Connections<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. The First Connect, Serve, and Ask\u00ae One-to-One<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you\u2019ve identified a potential champion, your next move is to schedule a <strong>30-minute <a href=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/networking-101\/referrals\/building-stronger-referral-networks\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/networking-101\/referrals\/building-stronger-referral-networks\/\">Connect, Serve, and Ask\u00ae<\/a> One-to-one<\/strong>. Think of this as your \u201cdiscovery conversation,\u201d not a sales pitch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The purpose of this first CSA One-to-one is to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Get to know each other beyond the quick intros in a meeting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Understand each other\u2019s businesses, goals, and target markets<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Look for <strong>ways to serve and add value<\/strong>\u2014before you ask for anything<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What to do in this first CSA One-to-one<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Use the time intentionally:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Connect (10\u201315 minutes for a 30 minute one to one or 30 minutes in a 60 minute one to one)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ask about their story: how they started, what they specialize in, and what matters most to them.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Look for common ground: similar values, complementary services, similar background.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Serve (10 minutes <strong>for a 30 minute one to one or 15 minutes in a 60 minute one to one<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ask:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cHow can I help you right now?\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cWho would you like to meet?\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cWho is your ideal client, industry, or type of person?\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Listen carefully for real needs:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Do they need visibility or something that you may actually provide or something you can help them with based on your own profession?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Introductions into a certain industry?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Help with messaging, systems, or tech?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Offer specific, realistic help:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A warm introduction you can make<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A resource, checklist, or tool<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A platform (podcast, workshop, webinar, social media) where you can feature them<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ask (in the time remaining)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In H7, you\u2019ll eventually learn <strong>How to Ask<\/strong> for your target markets in a way that makes it easier on others to help you and open up the channel for trust to be earned with you, using the specific techniques found only in <a href=\"https:\/\/h7-network.mn.co\/spaces\/13596596\/page\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/h7-network.mn.co\/spaces\/13596596\/page\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Activate H7<\/a> (must be logged into Town Square to view).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In this first meeting, keep your \u201cask\u201d <strong>to industry <\/strong>(<a href=\"https:\/\/www.h7network.com\/b2b-virtual-groups\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.h7network.com\/b2b-virtual-groups\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">B2B professional such as a Fractional Executive<\/a>)<strong> or type of person<\/strong> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.h7network.com\/in-person-meetups\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.h7network.com\/in-person-meetups\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">B2C professional such as a Realtor<\/a>), or simply set the stage for future asks once trust has been built.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<style>.kb-image3083_16b5b6-26 .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image3083_16b5b6-26\"><figure class=\"alignright size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Activate-500.png\" alt=\"In the Activate H7 Workshop, you will discover the art of purposeful communication empowering you to clearly articulate your requests or target markets (prospects), making it easier for other members to assist you.\" class=\"kb-img wp-image-3085\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Activate-500.png 500w, https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Activate-500-400x400.png 400w, https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Activate-500-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Activate-500-96x96.png 96w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Reflection questions for Step 2:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Are you prepared? Half the battle for success in networking is showing up prepared for your meeting. (<a href=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/networking-101\/relationship\/elevate-your-networking-preparedness\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/networking-101\/relationship\/elevate-your-networking-preparedness\/\">how to prepare<\/a>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How can you add value to your potential champion during this meeting?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What are the primary goals you aim to achieve through this Connect, Serve, and Ask\u00ae One-to-One?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Deepening the Relationship with a Second Connect, Serve, and Ask\u00ae One-to-One<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>second CSA One-to-one<\/strong> is where things move from \u201cgood conversation\u201d to the beginning of a <strong>real, trusted relationship<\/strong>. You\u2019re still not trying to \u201cget as much as you can.\u201d You\u2019re still focused on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Strengthening trust<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deepening understanding<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clarifying how you can sustainably support each other<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What changes between the first and second meetings?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>In the first meeting, you get the basics: who they are, what they do, and who they serve.<br>In the second meeting, you go deeper into learning what it may be like to refer this new relationship to your relationships:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Professional ethics and values<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>How do they treat clients?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What does a \u201cgood referral\u201d look like to them?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What would they <em>never<\/em> do in business?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Processes and expectations<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What happens when you send them a referral?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How do they follow up?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How do they communicate wins and outcomes?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strategic fit<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Do your networks genuinely overlap?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are your services compatible (non-competing but complementary)?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can you see yourself proudly introducing this person to your best clients?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Use this meeting to <strong>share more clearly about yourself<\/strong>, too:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Explain your client experience and onboarding<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Talk about your non-negotiables (how you treat people, communication standards, etc.)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Share a few short client success stories to show how you work<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Strategies to further build trust in Step 3<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Be transparent.<\/strong> If there are things you\u2019re still figuring out in your business, say so. People trust honesty over perfection.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Follow through on what you promised in the first meeting.<\/strong> Bring back updates on any introductions or resources you said you\u2019d provide.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ask deeper questions.<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cWhat kind of partnerships work best for you?\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cWhat\u2019s the most helpful type of introduction for your business?\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cWhat would an ideal champion relationship look like for you?\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Reflection questions for Step 3:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Have I reviewed the Second Connect, Serve, and Ask\u00ae One-to-One template? (<a href=\"https:\/\/h7-network.mn.co\/posts\/resources-tools-step-3-the-second-connect-serve-and-ask-one-to-one-take-massive-action\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/h7-network.mn.co\/posts\/resources-tools-step-3-the-second-connect-serve-and-ask-one-to-one-take-massive-action\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">review the template here in Town Square for preparation<\/a>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How did your understanding of the person\u2019s professional ethics and values evolve between the first and second meeting?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What strategies can you employ to further build trust in this future collaboration?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Developing the Champion Relationship<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>After <strong>two or three CSA One-to-ones<\/strong>, you\u2019ll often have enough information to decide:<br>\u201cIs this someone I want to intentionally develop as a Champion?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the answer is yes, this is where you <strong>formalize the relationship in your own mind, with them, your CRM,<\/strong> and begin to work together more strategically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Clarifying the relationship and expectations<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A Champion Relationship isn\u2019t vague. You each know:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Who you\u2019re trying to reach (target markets, ideal client profile, industries, and\/or types of people)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How you can open doors for each other<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What \u201ca good introduction\u201d looks like<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How you\u2019ll stay in touch and measure progress<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You might say something like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u201cI really value how we align in values and how complementary our networks are. I\u2019d love to be intentional about being a champion for you and having you as a champion for me. Can we set up a recurring time to meet monthly and work on introductions and collaboration together?\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Reflection questions for Step 4:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Do I desire to use the <strong>Connect, Serve, and Ask\u00ae Champion Recurring Meeting Agenda<\/strong> with my new Champion? (<a href=\"https:\/\/h7-network.mn.co\/posts\/resources-tools-connect-serve-and-ask-champion-recurring-meeting-agenda\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/h7-network.mn.co\/posts\/resources-tools-connect-serve-and-ask-champion-recurring-meeting-agenda\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">review the agenda in Town Square and discuss it with your Champion<\/a>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What unique resources or knowledge can you offer to fortify this champion relationship?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How do you plan to communicate the expectations and goals for this relationship to ensure mutual benefit?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Collaboration Opportunities with Your Trusted Champions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Once a Champion Relationship is in place, the real fun begins. Introductions are powerful\u2014but they are only <strong>one<\/strong> way to help each other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are several collaboration ideas you can use:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Use the Connect, Serve, and Ask\u00ae Champion Recurring Meeting Agenda<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>More than just a framework and more information is listed below.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Co-create content<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Host joint webinars or workshops<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Record a live or pre-recorded conversation on a topic you both care about<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Build a resource, guide, or checklist that serves both of your audiences<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cross-promote on social media<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Share and comment on each other\u2019s posts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do joint livestreams or short video interviews<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Feature each other regularly in stories or newsletters<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Industry collaborations<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Speak together at industry events or panels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Co-author articles or whitepapers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Host roundtables or invite-only discussions for your shared target markets<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Co-branded products or services<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Offer bundled services that solve a bigger problem together<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create a co-branded program, course, or package for a shared audience<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Build a referral-friendly framework where you each handle part of the client journey<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Testimonials, endorsements, and guest contributions<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Write testimonials or case studies for each other (when you\u2019ve seen their work)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Guest post on each other\u2019s blogs or appear on each other\u2019s podcasts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Invite one another to contribute tips, quotes, or insights to your content<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Reflection questions for collaboration:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Which collaboration opportunity aligns best with your strategic goals, and why?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How will you ensure that the collaborative efforts remain mutually rewarding?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Using the Champion Recurring Meeting Agenda<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Strong Trusted-Champion Relationships don\u2019t grow by accident\u2014they grow by <strong>consistency and structure<\/strong>. That\u2019s where a <strong>Champion Recurring Meeting Agenda<\/strong> comes in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Treat these meetings as a standing appointment to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Check in on each other\u2019s focus, markets, and priorities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Share wins and updates from previous introductions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plan new introductions and collaboration ideas<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to prepare for each champion meeting<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Prepare a list of desired introductions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Before each meeting, identify <strong>around 10 potential new connections<\/strong> that align with your champion\u2019s network.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Be specific: (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.h7network.com\/b2b-virtual-groups\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.h7network.com\/b2b-virtual-groups\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">B2B professional such as a Fractional Executive<\/a>) industries, company sizes, job titles, or (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.h7network.com\/in-person-meetups\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.h7network.com\/in-person-meetups\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">B2C professional such as a Realtor<\/a>) types of people.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Use templates for consistency<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Create or use existing <strong>LinkedIn introduction templates<\/strong> (<a href=\"https:\/\/h7-network.mn.co\/posts\/resources-tools-linkedin-introduction-templates-for-your-connect-serve-and-ask-one-to-ones-or-h7-meetings\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/h7-network.mn.co\/posts\/resources-tools-linkedin-introduction-templates-for-your-connect-serve-and-ask-one-to-ones-or-h7-meetings\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">LinkedIn Intro template<\/a>) or email scripts (<a href=\"https:\/\/h7-network.mn.co\/posts\/resources-tools-introduction-email-template-for-your-connect-serve-and-ask-one-to-ones\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/h7-network.mn.co\/posts\/resources-tools-introduction-email-template-for-your-connect-serve-and-ask-one-to-ones\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Email Intro template<\/a>).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make it simple for your champion to introduce you with confidence and clarity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep your \u201cask\u201d clear and separate from the explanation:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>First: \u201cI\u2019d love an introduction to [type of person\/industry\/company].\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Then: briefly explain <em>why<\/em> and <em>how<\/em> you can help that market.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Track and review together<\/strong> <strong>in each Champion Recurring Meeting<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Keep a simple tracking system (spreadsheet, CRM, or shared doc).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Review what\u2019s working:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Which introductions turn into good conversations?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Which collaborations are gaining traction?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adjust your focus together.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Reflection questions for your recurring agenda:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Is this direction the one I really want to take? Am I really ready to be very intentional with my networking?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How can you effectively use the champion recurring meeting agenda to create valuable introductions?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What measures will you take to assess the success and growth of your champion relationships periodically?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Mistakes That Stall Your H7 Champion Relationships (and How to Avoid Them)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the biggest mistakes members make is <strong>skipping straight to \u201cAsk\u201d<\/strong> without truly <strong>Connecting and Serving first<\/strong>. When you ask for referrals from someone who barely knows you, it puts pressure on them, risks their reputation, and often leads to low-quality introductions or no introductions at all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another common mistake is treating every person you meet as a potential champion. Not everyone is meant to become a Champion Relationship. Some will be great acquaintances; others will be occasional collaborators. That\u2019s okay. Focus your deepest energy on the people who share your values, show up consistently, and are eager to build something truly mutual. When you do, H7 becomes more than \u201cnetworking\u201d\u2014it becomes a powerful word of mouth marketing engine for predictable, trusted, lead generating growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion &amp; Next Step<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Building Champion Relationships in H7 is a simple, repeatable four-step pathway: connect at the meeting, schedule your first CSA One-to-one, deepen the relationship with a second, and then formalize and grow a champion partnership through ongoing collaboration and recurring agendas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019d like help mapping out your own Champion Strategy or designing your recurring meeting agenda, your next best step is to dive deeper into the <a href=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/networking-101\/referrals\/building-stronger-referral-networks\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/networking-101\/referrals\/building-stronger-referral-networks\/\">Connect, Serve, and Ask\u00ae<\/a> training and start applying it with one new potential champion this week.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kb-image3083_e63a42-24 .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image3083_e63a42-24\"><figure class=\"alignleft size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"250\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Clay-Headshot-with-no-black-background-01-30-25.png\" alt=\"Discover Clay Hicks, the Founder and CEO, of H7 Network\" class=\"kb-img wp-image-2319\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Clay-Headshot-with-no-black-background-01-30-25.png 250w, https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Clay-Headshot-with-no-black-background-01-30-25-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Clay-Headshot-with-no-black-background-01-30-25-96x96.png 96w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/news-feed\/the-desk\/clayhicks\/\">Learn more about Clay Hicks<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Method and written by: Clay Hicks<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/networking-101\/relationship\/the-power-of-relationship-centric-networking-predictable-outcomes-through-trusted-relationships\/\">\u201c<em>When you focus on the relationship and not the outcome, your outcomes become more predictable<\/em>\u201d<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Effective Networking Strategies in 4 Simple Steps Networking shouldn\u2019t feel like collecting business cards that go nowhere. Inside H7, you have a clear pathway for turning first-time connections into Champions&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":3084,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kadence_starter_templates_imported_post":false,"_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[79],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3083","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-champion"],"taxonomy_info":{"category":[{"value":79,"label":"Champion Building"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Develop-your-Champions-Workshop.png",500,500,false],"author_info":{"display_name":"Clayton","author_link":"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/author\/clayton\/"},"comment_info":0,"category_info":[{"term_id":79,"name":"Champion Building","slug":"champion","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":79,"taxonomy":"category","description":"<h2>Champion Building Best Practices:<\/h2>\r\nA Champion in the world of business networking is more than just a connection; they are an advocate who actively promotes your services or products by providing you with valuable referrals.","parent":74,"count":16,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":79,"category_count":16,"category_description":"<h2>Champion Building Best Practices:<\/h2>\r\nA Champion in the world of business networking is more than just a connection; they are an advocate who actively promotes your services or products by providing you with valuable referrals.","cat_name":"Champion Building","category_nicename":"champion","category_parent":74}],"tag_info":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3083","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3083"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3083\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3134,"href":"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3083\/revisions\/3134"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3084"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3083"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3083"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/h7network.blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3083"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}