by Kenneth O'Mally

Created on: June 25, 2008   Last Updated: June 27, 2008

Seven Key Friends that can help you.

It is true that it is who you know through the years that can get you through in life. This is true. The people who have been most successful in leveraging their friends productively will also attest that there is a reason behind that clich. Having friends with expertise and experience in areas where you do not understand are key to lifes' successes. There are probably other types of friends one can benefit from. However here is a list of the best seven.

Doctor/Physician
It is not always all the time that you can afford to trust the doctor from the commercials. Being good friends with a family doctor or specialist will ensure you get the correct advise when health issues arise. Most doctors these days are wary of what they say to patients they don't know due to malpractice lawsuits. Because of that you may not always get the best medical advice when at a hospital or clinic.

Auto Mechanic
Do you drive a car? Chances are if you are reading this you will be getting into a vehicle before the day is over. Good auto mechanics tell you everything about vehicle repair, as well as how to buy and sell them.

Banker/Financier
A speaker once said "you need money just like you need oxygen". Nothing could be closer to the truth. Financiers such as bankers and the like give you invaluable information on how to get the best loans. If you are in business they are even of greater value.

Pastor/Clergy
Sometimes words can make or break people. In a world filled with stress these friends of the community can give you much needed spiritual advice. They can also be a great source of information on local goings on.

Lawyer
They are good targets of popular humor. They are also masters of how to get you out of trouble legally. As long as you do not read their writing, your safe.

Law enforcement official
Law enforcement officials are just regular folks like you and I. We just have an image of them as people that write tickets or carry weapons. Knowing a good law enforcement official as a friend will give you a "heads up" on what is going on in your community. They also know people personally themselves in the world of law who can assist you when trouble calls.

Accountant
Taxes are a part of our everyday life. You give this money away most times when you make a purchase. Having an accountant in your friend circle will get you free information on tax loopholes increase your finances (or tax refunds). They are also not a bad source of information for business decisions.

It is good to have at least half of these people as part of your "A-list". You of course do not make friends because of what the person is but because of who they are. However, in the course of making acquaintances people in these professions can certainly be useful in your corner when life issues call. They also give you connections on a much larger network of contacts.

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