Crabwalk with people you already know

When you get stuck, who can you go to for help?

It's probably more people than you think.

How to expand who you can rely on for help in 10 minutes.

When we’re feeling frozen in place and not sure what to do next in our own careers, we find it helpful to lean on someone to help us navigate out of our funk.

We refer to these wonderful people as our Crabwalk roster. They’re not only the people we regularly talk to, but also those from our past that we may have lost touch with. Laura’s first startup job in NYC came through a tip from a high school friend who she had been out of touch with for the better part of six years. (Thanks, Justin!)

Feeling limited in who you can reach out to? Build your own Crabwalk roster with this quick exercise.

10-Minute Crabwalk Roster Exercise

1. Take out your favorite notebook or copy this simple Roster template

2. Fill in 3-5 names for each category below

3. Don't worry if you haven't talked to them recently - add them anyway

4. Add any other categories that come to mind - past, present, or future

Family Friends

Volunteer Opportunities

Neighbors

Religious Organizations

Friends of Friends

Sports Teammates

Partner's Coworkers

Executive Team

Online Communities

Clients

Activities After Work

Industry Peers

Gym

(Ex) Coworkers

Hometown Friends

Mentors-to-Be

What did you notice? Anything surprise you?

Usually we're more connected than we think. Just doing this exercise always unlocks a ton for all of our Crabwalk 5-Week Program participants. Next time you're stuck on something, scan your roster and see who might be able to help. (Tip: Don't forget to be respectful, offer to help, and be prepared for a "no.")

Did you do this exercise? Tell us what surprised you about your list and what questions or feedback you have for us. We'd love to hear how it went!