Leveraging Your Digital Network

As a leader, how do you use your digital network to accomplish your goals?

Most leaders understand how to use online tools, such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter, to build their networks. But few use these networks to gather information and provide influence. Here are three things you can do with a strong digital network:

• Test ideas. Test proposals and strategies both inside and outside your school/organization. Float an idea to see how many "likes" it gets or to direct people to a survey.
• Broker connections. Increase your influence by positioning yourself as a bridge between unconnected groups. Identify potential collaborations and make introductions.
• Get feedback. Good networkers rely on their contacts to provide feedback on challenges. Post a message about your struggle and solicit input.

Adapted from "Three Skills Every 21st-Century Manager Needs" by Andrew L. Molinsky, Thomas H. Davenport, Bala Iyer, and Cathy Davidson.