Be an AWESOME CONNECTOR!

In ‘The Tipping Point', Malcolm Gladwell explains that an idea must have three critical people to take on a life of its own: a Connector, a Maven and a Salesman. Of the three, the Connector is the one who really gets the idea moving and helps it expand.

The Connector, Malcom Gladwell describes as a person who makes connections between what seem to be very different and disparate people and ideas. Connectors seem to know everyone, and are always introducing people and championing ideas. Gladwell says that Connection is the ability to bring people together, and grow a network of people that have things in common. The larger network allows the Connector to benefit from much broader set of opinions and experiences than one would otherwise.

I am a Connector, and I believe there are six parts to be an effective Connector.

1) Identify avenues to reach others. I have used LinkedIn extensively, but supplemented it with my work partners, association members and friends. Every person has needs, abilities, resources and experiences. Get to know them and ask if the would like you to introduce them to another connection who may benefit them or they may benefit. It has been my experience that 80% of people are willing and 20% are private or currently too busy with life. Leave the door open for all to approach you in the future.

2) Be enthusiastic enough to share your interests and discoveries with others. They become emotionally engaged with your excitement and may feel free to share their own. You cannot assume you know the interests of others. It is during conversations you learn more about others.

3) Keep in touch with YOUR network. They will reach out for assistance more readily if you have an active relationship. When I make a new LinkedIn connection, I send a four paragraph introduction of who I am, what I am currently doing, what I am seeking and an offer to be of assistance/value to them. Most often, the recipient responds with a brief "Thanks for letting me know." and that seems to be the end. But if you have a group of LinkedIn connections, and one provided you that information, you have more reason to reach out to them should you need assistance.

LinkedIn is like a garden, and needs to be tended regularly. It has become my habit to log on each morning to get the morning news and respond to all messages; it takes 15 minutes average and I am able to deliver value to those requesting assistance.

4) Reevaluate your methods and refine at least quarterly. If I am not actively responding to conversations on LinkedIn at least once a week, I feel like my network may have become too stagnant; I reach out to several people just to check in on them.

5) Encouragement is free and absolutely invaluable. Honest complements are a bridge to a better tomorrow. Lay them out every chance you get.

6) The most important thing? Do good for others without expectations of good in return. Keep in mind what my wise friend @Liza Krug says, "When we get better, we ALL get better."

Garrett Halsell adds these things that he does....

1) Imprint - A great phrase I use to imprint on those I want to connect is this: "What does someone need to say for me to think of you" Once they finish that statement, I shorten it in my head as much as I can and associate them with that work. 

2) Look for opportunities to introduce others - When speaking with a new contact I have many diagnostic questions that help me figure out what someone needs. All of them are simple and ultimately, they help us all grow and improve.

Thank you Garrett!