Some call it scrappy. Others call it realistic. I call it being resourceful. As a boutique agency with a carefully curated client list, we’ve always been resourceful; we have to be.



Then, I attended a class instructed by Mark Monchek on “Resource Mapping” at The Opportunity Lab and I learned how to leverage my resources on a higher level.

In the Resource Mapping Ecosystem, there are only three degrees of separation between you and what you want. You just have to learn how to ask for it.

Systemizing your existing resources can help you discover opportunities, connections and solutions.

Here are the categories:

Knowledge: Sharing resources within your organization can reduce costs and increase productivity.

Communications: Make sure you are taking advantage of all resources effectively.

Markets: Always be exploring new targets for your business.

Capital: Develop an action plan for tapping your most important resources.

People: Categorize people and explore their needs to identify opportunities and form new partnerships.

Organization: Capture all the organizations you are connected to.

 

Here are the principals:

Abundance: There is enough opportunity for everyone.

Intention: Know what you want and don’t expect anything to fall into your lap.

Collaboration: Consider the needs of others, not just your own; you are stronger as a network.

Success DNA: Know what you have to offer in addition to what you need.

Resilience: Continue to be optimistic and look for opportunities in unpredictable problems.

 

When you have mapped out your ecosystem of resources you are ready to make “the ask.”

When you ask your resources you must be clear, compelling and actionable.

When you get a response to your ask, be ready to find opportunity, take action and partner with others to make it happen.

In order to be successful in Resource Mapping you need to be ready to receive what you ask for and deliver what you offer.

It’s already working for me. I hope you will try it and join our resources. WF

 

Nancy Trent is a writer and speaker, a lifelong health advocate, a globe-trotting trend watcher and the founder and president of Trent & Company, a New York-based marketing communications firm.  Trent & Company grew out of Nancy’s personal commitment to helping people live longer and healthier lives.  A former journalist for New York magazine, Nancy has written seven books on healthy lifestyles, serves on the editorial boards of several magazines and travels around the world speaking at conferences and trade shows on trends in the marketplace. She is a recognized expert in PR with more than 30 years of experience creating and managing highly successful campaigns. Nancy can be reached at (212) 966-0024 or through e-mail at nancy@trentandcompany.com.  You may also visit www.trentandcompany.com.

 

posted on WholeFoods Magazine Online, 7/23/14