We all know people like them, people who seem to know everyone. They're always able to help -- or if they can't, they know someone who can. You meet them for the first time and in 15 minutes, you're talking with them like you're childhood friends. They're successful, smart and funny, with a likable touch of self-deprecation. And they're interested in everything.
Who are they? Connectors. Take Maryam Banikarim, senior vice president and chief marketing officer at Gannett, publisher of USA Today. She has a perfect job for a connector -- she helps link Gannett's various newspapers and media outlets "and bring the pieces together."
"I like people and am genuinely curious," says Banikarim, 42. "I like stories and want to make connections. But I didn't know the word for it until my husband read Malcolm Gladwell's The Tipping Point and said, 'I finally have a word for you -- a connector.' "
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As Gladwell writes, "sprinkled among every walk of life . . . are a handful of people with a truly extraordinary knack of making friends and acquaintances. They are Connectors." Gladwell describes them as having an ability to span many different worlds, subcultures and niches.
Traits such as energy, insatiable curiosity and a willingness to take chances seem to be the common thread among connectors -- as well as an insistence that connecting is not the same as networking.
"Networking I see as a means to an end," says Jill Leiderman, executive producer of the late-night show Jimmy Kimmel Live. But connecting, she explains, is about using a genuine love of meeting people and making friends to engage and assist one another.
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Connectors show a willingness to venture outside their comfort zones. For example, comedy writer Josh Bycel (shown top) visited a Darfur refugee camp six years ago, and on the way home he came up with the idea of raising money for a medical clinic for the camp. In three weeks, he had collected $50,000.
That idea grew into a nonprofit called OneKid OneWorld, which aims to connect schools in the United States with those in Kenya and other developing countries to provide everything from books to clean water.
"I'm a comedy writer. I don't know anything about building schools," says Bycel, 40, who lives in Los Angeles. "But I'm interested in learning. You need to get out and make connections outside of your own world. Being interested in lots of different things by definition allows you to be a connector."
The willingness to reach out to someone you don't know is crucial to the art of connecting, and especially important in uncertain economic times. Those who are in mid-career and may have worked for one company for years should learn connecting skills before they need them.
For instance, most people's natural inclination is to seek out friends at meetings and mealtimes. Banikarim says not to do that. "It's easy to sit with someone you know," she says. "It's hard, but more interesting, to sit with someone you don't know. This is not like high school. It's not just the losers who don't have somewhere to sit."
It may seem as if connectors are born, not made, but that's not necessarily true. Banikarim was forced to learn to reach out to people from an early age. She moved with her family from Iran to Paris in 1979, then to Northern California, where there wasn't an Iranian community. "I was often that new kid," she says. When she started college at Barnard, "I knew it was either sink or swim. The first week of school, I joined every club and went to every meeting. I ended up as freshman class president."
Joining clubs and organizations is a terrific way to find like-minded people, but only go when you have an interest -- and don't attend endless networking get-togethers. Keith Ferrazzi, author of Never Eat Alone, says he has never been to an official networking event. Instead, he advises, join organizations that focus on the events and activities you love.
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"I have a friend who is the executive vice president of a large bank in Charlotte," he writes in his book. "His networking hotspot is, of all places, the YMCA. He tells me that at 5 and 6 in the morning, the place is buzzing with exercise fanatics like himself getting in a workout before they go to the office. He scouts the place for entrepreneurs, current customers and prospects."
Of course, when you're walking into that first meeting or class and facing a bunch of strangers, the instinct is to flee. That's all right. The point is not to ignore the fear, but acknowledge it -- and then work through it.
"I sort of just run into fear, as I run into chaos," says Banikarim, whom The New York Post named one of the 50 most powerful women in New York City in 2008 when she worked at Univision. "You breathe deep, and you have to remember that everyone is scared."
Perhaps one of the most important attributes of a connector is a willingness to help and to reach out even if there is no obvious or immediate payback.
That means thinking long-term. Jen Singer is the founder of the blog Mommasaid.net, author of five books, a Pull-Ups spokeswoman and an undeniable connector. "The biggest mistake people make is they think 'if I help this person, that will happen immediately.' We have to stop thinking in linear terms," she says.
Helping others out doesn't mean you can't hold some things back. Singer, 44, uses the word "coopetition" -- a combination of competition and cooperation -- to describe her philosophy. "I think this generation understands you share, but also protect your own interests -- you don't give a key to everything you have. It's a line you have to learn to walk."
Finally, a connector also occasionally has to disconnect. Leiderman says her boyfriend "has taken away my Blackberry so I can super-connect with him."
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This originally appeared at SecondAct.com.
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Comments:
That is totally me and I am looking for a profession way to utilize those skills. I am all about using a genuine love of meeting people and making friends to engage and assist, not use, one another. I am quite capable of aligning people or missions to bring about outcomes without a budget.
I myself have never heard of being a connector before.
At an recent event, someone called me a connector, an I didn't know what they meant. Now I do. As a natural introvert, it doesn't seem to be a true fit, but through various life experiences I recognize that I have learned to be a connector.
This really described qualities that I have, however that many others I know don't possess, leading to sometimes feeling like I should slow my roll. But no, I'm going to embrace these qualities I have, and this article enforces that decision. I genuinely do love learning through others, what they have to say, their input, the backgrounds, their ideas etc. I am a senior in college, and though the uncertainty of a spot in the workforce can make all of us soon to be grads a bit uneasy, I really think working hard and CONNECTING is key.
Ditto and more ditto!!
Wow, I just read about me. I've finally learned to embrace my natural qualities and learning how to let them work for me. Sales is my natural place and now I realize anywhere there are people, I can put my skills to use for the betterment of others, causes, tasks. Give me the connecting side of a project and I am on task.
This is great advise and i have loved it, unfortunately to me i have totally been unsuccessful in connecting with people who can be of value in regard to caring for kids what i do, the interesting part of it, "To me when Am on Facebook some people seem to be interesting and even promise to work hand in hand with me but at the end of time they just become silent even though i ask of them no response and others just change channel, i always remain wondering whats wrong with me". Thank you.
I do this without even thinking about it...just love hearing what great things people are doing and then before you know it you know someone who could help them. More than getting something in return, I get people saying you should talk to me; she'll know how to connect you with someone. I always wanted to write that on my CV but wasn't sure what to say...now I can add that.
I didn't read this as, mentally, I couldn't get past the cheesy photo, which seems to sum up so many negative things: neo-colonialist white male wearing his origin (or education?) on his chest bringing the merits of US civilisation to the natives. Yugh!
There's a way to identify the right people. It depends on what you're doing, but everyone has a certain group that lead to high probability, high value relationships.
When you just love to know about people and their stories, the end result is not the focus!
At last I know the right word for what I am actually doing daily. Thanks!
If anyone needs a connector in the Greater Salt Lake area, let me know.
Ahmad, You are referring to a contact. Keeping in front of contacts, is the way to keep them alive. Assume responsibility for maintaining contact, and turn it into a meaningful relationship.
Great article. Thank you Stephanie! Sounds like us when we met :-) Connect girlfriend, connect!! Remember when you reach out to others it comes back to you ten fold. Giving to others is always a good thing, especially when you DON'T expect anything in return. Makes both you and them have a brighter day :-)
I've always joked about it being like match making, but connecting is a much better term. Personally I find it fun, and this is where a great deal of my personal fulfillment comes from
In my opinion if you're an excellent connector then there is no need to "keep the connection alive." I meet many people and there are some connections from years ago that I haven't chatted with. However, if I see them again or see a way to connect them with my or someone else's work I have no trouble talking to them. People like to feel needed, remembered, and special. If you don't treat the connection as diminished because of time/distance then why should they? As a test, try just reaching out to someone you haven't seen/talked to in a few years. I bet they'll respond. If not, then they may not be someone worth having a connection with anyway. Just my thoughts.
I get a call from Denny, a musician who thinks I might be just the person to sponsor our mutual friend, Harry in his quest to become a US citizen. In the course of our 15 minute conversation I suggest that Lori, who has known Harry for years, would be a better candidate. In addition, Denny mentions that he's been wanting to break into soundtracks for movies; he has several rather emotive songs he's written that he would like to approach a filmmaker with. Before we finish I have two filmmaker leads for Denny and he agrees to get me a demo CD in the next two weeks. I am a solution-oriented person, connecting people who can be and/or find solutions for others. I believe it is genetic and comes naturally to me. I find it easier to do this for others than to do it for myself.
I spend all day doing this and its not even in my job role. We call it sign posting..
Awesome. Insightful. Inspiring. Thanks.
I have no problems connecting. I find that I have a problem connecting to the right people who are willing to offer effective ways of sharing resources and/or helping one to connect with those connectors who are willing to either collaberate or aid in financing and/or fund raising for certain needy projects; those who says, yes we can! Once can always connect with those who need and want your help or support, the thing is how to get others on board to meet the goals and complete the project without jumping through hoops or a lot of red-tape or politics.
I share the same issue. But I would suggest a reframing of the idea of "Fail" as this denotes that you are doing because u want something back. and in the terms of the article this would I assume to be Linear thinking. Ideas I would suggest would be get them as a contact on Linked in. that way you know where they are "are" so to speak. and have a medium to contact them if you so desire. Plus if u need them the Universe will give u opportunities to catch up with them again. This belief in the Universe is what i need assistance in lately.....
Its good for what you are doing, but will you be helping us or only some will benefit??
Thank you for the description of a 'connector'. I have attended networking training and networking events and always felt that something was missing. You have added several dimensions to my understanding of professional and personal relationships.
Thank you. This article was timely.
Intention shapes our lives.
I am in the same position..any good ideas?
I totally agree with you Karen. Giving and sharing is giving and sharing. When you give something you do not expect returns. You give what you have - knowledge, directions, connections to others who need help and enjoy seeing others benefit from what you give and share. When you continue giving and sharing, unknowingly you develop a huge credit of goodwill and that is what you treasure than any wealth that you have. Hema D.
Ahmad, I would like to know more on this also. First ideas for me where: Be sure to get their contact information. Send them a 'Nice Meeting You' card/e-mail/call. Ask how often they do what it was they were doing when you met them. Ask them if they know of similar activities or events (if you share an interest in that area) that they wouldn't mind suggesting--People love to talk about themselves and also have an opportunity to share their knowledge. Plan to meet up with them again. Go from there. Sometimes, I find this difficult because we all get so busy with life. So, I would like to hear more from others on how to keep the connections alive. Selflessness would be the biggest key I suppose --- What can I/you do for them as opposed to the other way around. BE WELL> Chad
I'm an excellent connector but I fail in keeping up the connection alive!! any ideas??
I love this article! I just shared it with all of my undergraduate and graduate students. I feel when done with the right intentions, networking/connecting etc is a very valuable tool.
Being a Connector is the foundation of what I do as a Dating Coach and Matchmaker. Getting clients to think like and act like Connectors as well gives a big boost to their dating lives!
Hi everyone, I identified so much with this I found it totally easy to respond. Connecting has a moral compass to it and as suggested a couple of times here, connecting is about giving and sharing and not dependent on something - especially cash - in return. No matter where I've gone in life, I tend to end up bringing people together and realised it was easy for me and people remembered me years down the line even though they had not seen me since. That's what I call Connecting...
I just really love people. Getting to know new people and hearing their stories is just amazing. People are interesting and wonderful and have a lot to teach me about most subjects. The term "Networking" has always seemed a little self serving but you can choose to not use people but help everyone. It comes back to you in spades. Everyone tells me I have never met a stranger. While reading this, it is good to know there is term for who I am!
You may like "Tipping Point" if you Liked this post!
I feel I am a connector and can relate to many points in this article. I enjoy meeting new people and making connections. Working side-by-side on a volunteer project with new people gives you a great opportunity to connect in so many ways. Those connections untimately lead to new business for you if you are trustworthy & follow thru.
This is an awesome post Thanks Anthony Kress. There is a huge difference betweening networking and connecting....if we strive to connect while we are networking it makes all the difference.
It's great to read an article that hits the spot. I have been 'connecting' friends and colleagues for years and they love my parties which include friends from the variety of interest groupings which make up my identity. I think it is an unconscious wish to integrate so many different perspectives. My training as a group analyst has enhanced my inherent way of relating and inquisitive nature. Maybe it is time to add 'connector' to my skills list!
Over the years, folks have used the term "weaver" to describe the intuitive manner in which I approach connecting people, activities and opportunities. I definitely agree that you have to be able to step out of your comfort zone, be willing to fraternize with the competition while staying focused on the big goal. If you embrace the concept "a rising tide lifts all" - leveraging your network and sharing/connecting opportunity can benefit everyone in the long run. We are all part of "fabric" of our society and thus "weavers" are necessary to pull it all together.
Hi, my name is Gabriel and I am a connector! As soon as I see a crowd I start building possible connections in my head between individuals as I learn about everybody's expertise and interests. My connections are mostly in the academic biomedical engineering research and business world but I am interested in any groups of people. I even started groups at the high school level because, well, that is what I do. I like to work in teams, I like to rely on other people expertise so together we can accomplish more than I can accomplish by myself. I have being studying blood vessel networks in my research for over 15 years and observe the natural way blood vessels work together to accomplish the obvious common goal of keeping us alive. In particular I looked at arcade vessels that connect separate arteries such as coronary arteries and help us recover after a heart attack. The one comment I have about working in teams and building networks of people is that it has to start from the premise that we need each other which sometimes can be perceived as a weakness especially in groups with strong individuals such as the scientists or clinicians. Too many times we build teams or networks with people with the same expertise (birds of a feather...) which completely misses the point of a network and consequently the network becomes a collection of individual small networks which can only accomplish small individual goals. To all the connectors out there, let's... connect!
The term networking often times has a bad connotation, but when you truly network, you are becoming a connector. Connecting people because it's the right thing to do versus the expectation of a payback results in all kinds of amazing outcomes.
As someone with a professional interest in networking, reading your article felt like letting in a breath of fresh, clear air into what is often a very stale debate. All too many people view networking very instrumentally – as a way of getting something beneficial to themselves. So the whole activity is tinged with an unpleasant and manipulativeness. In contrast, connectors appreciate the importance of giving as well as getting. They realise that networking can be fun – after all, people are endlessly interesting, aren’t they? When confronted by a reluctant networker in one of my workshops, I repeatedly find myself telling them: We can’t all be connectors, and if that outgoing way of being goes against the grain, don’t fight it. But each and every one of us can become a better networker, and a better connector. So when you next meet somebody new, or have an interesting conversation, take a moment to think about whether they might appreciate an introduction to a member of your network. The connector’s role isn’t to cement relationships – merely to initiate them and then take some of the credit if (and more often when) they flourish into something mutually beneficial.
Connectors - that is a strong Gemini trait. I didn't think too much about astrology until, out of curiosity, I took a class through parks and rec. I learned a lot about myself as a Gemini. The first paragraph of your article describes me as a Gemini to a T.
The role of the "connector" has long been recognised in the literature around innovation. Michael Tushman used the phrase "boundary spanning" in 1977 to describe those people within a research organisation that would go outside their core group and connect with others. There was often no overt purpose (which makes it very hard to justify in a scientific management culture), but frequently a beneficial return. That was in large companies (because they were the only ones with 'research' groups) but it's equally applicable to small businesses and lone entrepreneurs. The issue of playing the long game and not expecting immediate 'pay-off' is critical to being a good connector. Research has shown that trust is one of the most important factors in bringing two people together. From a social psychology perspective you are acting as a relationship broker, and unless both sides trust you, they will never trust each other. I would also challenge the idea in the article about only going to things where you have an interest. I would say that you should have an interest in whatever event you are at (which is a slightly different take). Some of my most useful connections came from an event about disaffection in young people; my work is with engineering companies & I don't have kids, however, as a citizen I'm interested in the future generations and so was interested in the event and the people there.
Lauren, it echoes my sentiment exactly. What do we do to become better? What direction in my career using my skills does this take me? Baby Step #1: build a data base of the people you connect with. Simple, concise information pertaining to the connection. Baby Step #2: refer to them from time to time showing you are interested in them like a familiar face asking "how's it going?". As it stated, it's long term like a true friendship is built over time!
Lauren I may have an opportunity for you if you are interested. It will take you far if you are connected to many people in various walks of life and is fun. Hard work, but anything worth it is hard work for a few years, then sit back and have fun. Donna
I understand your predicament, I have been a connector most of my life but I do with out ever expecting anything in return. For me it is never about receiving because my meeting them is enough.
This article is so inspiring and really describes me. For several years now, my friends have associated the term "networking" as my buzz word and I really think "connector" is a much better term. Though I am always meeting new people and engaging in their lives, I am constantly trying to introduce new friends to old friends all the time. My friend was trying to plan a birthday party for me last month and at one point she called to tell me that it was damn near impossible because I am a part of so many circles and she couldn't figure out where to even begin the invite list. I took great pride in that phone call, as you may imagine. My love of networking actually began with Gladwell's book; I am always recommending it as a great and informative read. I've also told anyone who'll listen that it truly changed my life.
I thought exact the same :)
I'm definitely a connector and enjoy putting people in touch with each other in an effort to reach a common goal to help humanity; however, I would like to be reimbursed for my hours of effort and sacrifice. How can I make a living from my efforts.
In early 2008 I published a book called The Connect Effect: Building Strong Personal, Professional and Virtual Networks. Your article touches on many elements necessary to be a successful networker. One key, from my perspective, is the phrase "give first and give often." I also recently read an excerpt from Reid Hoffman's (founder of LinkedIn) new book on networking and it looked like it had a lot of excellent advice in it.
Good post. Only - This is what networking is all about IMHO. Therefore, I don't see why the headline reads "Forget networking..". I think this is rather "Networking Advanced Level".
This totally sums up what I am and what I have done over the years! How do I go about using my skills to make a career for myself?
We all belong to different communities of people. not geographical, but circles based on interests, professions, non-profits we support, family members, etc. Connecting the communities to each other has been very beneficial to members of all the communities. Creating new communities is also fun.
Hello Alina, I love your article. Its really speaks to me. It makes my work as a PR practitioner seem so much more meaningful. It validates what I do. Thank you!
Just like it is wisely said, it is in giving that we receive. Give attention to others, get it back from them in greater measure.
Loved your post Alina! I used to be called a "networkers' networker" because I seemed to know everyone and made endless introductions that led to their success over my own. (Much more rewarding in the scheme of things; don't you think?) I'll have to say that I like the word "connector" better as there seems to be "heart" at its center. I'll finish with a quote that I think says it all: "People don't care how much you know, until they know how much you care." Dr. Ivan Misner Here's to your success! ~ Beth
I think a key to being a great connector is to always ask about the other person's business or life rather than talking about your own. Of course you should answer any questions about your life or business, but people truly appreciate being listened to rather than feeling sold to.
Great article. To be a great connector, you need to listen very carefully and then sort through your relationships to propose who can be most helpful. Events are also a great way to bring your connections together. In a world where we are all online a lot, real time meetings matter.
I finally know what I am! I am a connector - have been all my life and now I know what to call myself! Thank you!
Having a genuine curiosity and actually seeing the world and the people around you is key. It astounds me how few people come out of their own shell to look around. I understand that many people are caught up with the duties of daily living. I find making these connections to others is energizing, a good way to stay healthy and adds needed humanness to our lives. I never thought of myself as a connector but it is a good term. I've often thought about what I do as being like the Memory Game I've played with my daughters. Remembering who's who and matching the pairs as I go through life.
I have sent my comment but not reflected Why? Regards Rev. Shalom Muwanguzi Nyenje
Real connectors are not thinking long-term, they're too busy connecting.
Wow, I finally have a name for my best strenght! I love bringing people together and I have done it throughout my life, both personally and professionally. Thanks for shedding the light and making me feel good about myself. Who doesn't need an ego boost every now and then? :)
I thoroughly resonate with this article. Countless people have told me over the years that I am a connector. That's what I love to do! Thanks for developing these thoughts.
Very interesting. There are also big local differences, if I go for business event in Prague, most people attending in pairs or groups and use breaks for private gossiping and look annoyed if a stranger starts to talk to them. In London or Amsterdam is such networking much easier.
THis is me! I am a connector. Your right! I am the one in the community that people send people to me. For ideas, contacts. When someone is talking to me about what they want to do I see it begining to end immediately. I am just built that way. One woman called me a visionary. Which kinda took me back a little but this all makes sense. great!
Great article Alina-We are social creatures and sharing ourselves through others and cross-pollinating each others strengths builds community and goodwill. I agree that genuine interest in others and curiosity are the hallmarks of connectors. Our new social networks give us great tools to share each others ideas, skills and unique qualities.
There's a lot here about connectors helping people. Connecting can be very fulfilling, but the value of a connector is not always appreciated or compensated.
I HAVE ALWAYS BELIEVED IN THIS TYPE OF KNOWLEDGE FROM MY YOUTH...HAVING A SOLUTION FOR ALMOST EVERY SITUATION...
Great article - this sounds like me. I always try to link my friends and colleagues together based on the laws of "supply and demand". While we all know, it's not what you know necessarily, it's who you know. But what about knowing that person that knows that person! This is where I come into play. And with the extensive international travelling I do for my career in business and sometimes first class, I am almost never surprised with who I meet. Whether it’s a celebrity or a CEO, these folks are generally approachable and while that person’s profession may not be of direct help to you and you’re your career path, it may benefit someone you know. Always collect cards from the people you meet, especially if they are in a position to recommend or hire. And who knows, maybe down the line one day that person that you connected might be a connection for you! We live in a very “360” world and while it’s a big planet, it’s truly a small world!
Beg to differ seems you connect first before networking.
Ha ha! Strong sarcasm.
Interesting seems people with great people skills and a strong interest in 'people matters' are connectors the movers and shakers of social networks.
I Absolutely 1000% agree with this article, i feel people have to start reconnecting with humans not servers if they want to see some quick and lasting connections
Just reading Creativity, Flow and the psychology of discovery and invention by Mihaly Csikszentmihaly from 1997. He says the same about creative people. I'm wondering ab out if it is the same things that make connectors and creative people?
Thanks for your unique take. I knew that more that merely networking was needed. But connecting demands a shift in perspective. Hadn't thought of it tjhat way.
nice article. one of the key elements of 'true' connectors is - they keep an open mind. and they are ever curious. in addition to the 'never eat alone" and "tipping point" - another great book is "Work The Pond" by Darcy Rezac. it's a fairly short book - where he describes the virtues and traits of "connectors" & how they in fact create value both in business and society. http://goo.gl/HkkGY miraj @asterix:twitter
Hi....great article....but I would like to know..if there is an business that would fit a connector?? Or is there a "job-role" called connector?
This is a fantastic article! It was like reading about myself. I thought just had a good network, but i got more than that.
This is a rare skill. Most people are shy and socially impaired. Social networking has helped break some of those barriers, but real-life networking and connecting will continue to be a rare skill (even rarer now that many hide behind social media). When you see one, snatch him/her.
Thanks for outing us connectors again! I'm inspired by Bycel, and had a similar experience to Banikarim's, however it was a prospective client that, during our first meeting, identified me as one and explained the Gladwell term. This was about 10 yrs ago and I've long since read The Tipping Point and have embraced the appellation. (And, yes, he hired me.)
Say in a party, if you r a friend of the host, it is natural to help to entertain the guests, getting to know the other person surely be one of the many ways u can do.
Thanks for giving my "a name". Many times people have asked me what I do and I always felt that if I told them about my company ( acccounting ) I was telling only a smalle part of the story. This is what I do to earn my money but on top of that my network enables me to do the things that really make me happy: connecting people and possibilities. Ingrid van Wersch, Intersolution Administratie The Netherlands
Business is all about making connections with people...whatever terminology you want to use to describe it!
But connecting, she explains, is about using a genuine love of meeting people and making friends to engage and assist one another. It may be hard to believe, but some people such as myself don't have "a genuine love of meeting people and making friends." I've been working on conquering my social anxiety so I can function better in society, but I'll never love meeting people. It's something I do when I have to, and to endure it as best I can. Anything else is too overwhelming!
Very good article! :-) After Reading This article...I just saw myself in it. But I would like to know, what kind of job or jobrole, that fits to a connector?? Everyone around me just tell mé All the time, that you are good at be a connector through your network...but I have often thought...This ability...what kind of job should you have or be in?
My experience has taught me that if I operate in my job at my office as though I am a seperate company. And do the things that would help grow my company both in respect and busienss it can only benefit my boss and me both. Normally what is good for me in my job, as long as we are speaking in positive productive terms, will be good for my project, my team, my company and my boss.
GREAT ARTICLE.
Your connection is the loser - not you!
Exceptional article - Many of my entrepreneur clients work this way naturally, while others have had to learn this art-form. It's a shift in thinking for many, but any one who deploys it usually embraces it as a powerful way of Be-ing in business.
I have often called these people “bridges” somehow they look at building relationships in a different way.They know the more people they connect with the more opportunities open up, for themselves and for those who's lives they have touched. Life is a web of endless possibilities; you never know what exciting adventures await around every smile:-)
Great article on people connecting. I agree there is a big difference between networking and connecting with others. Like the saying goes - it's hard being Human by yourself.
This sounds like an excellent new management fad. It's about time Networking hit the scrap heap. Connectionization is a polysyllabic neologism devoid of any specific meaning, so it will probably do well. I wish Connectionization every success in its career, but not in mine thanks!
Hi Carol. I admit, I misspoke. It would be untrue of me to say that it can not be learned. But I do believe it is a gift some people are born with.
A connector. I like this article, I have always wondered if there is a term for what I do, and this is it. Its not about doing business but being spacially aware of who and what is out there without a personal aim other that making things better by being linked and aware of the big picture.
Thank you for the great insight. Throughout my many years in business, both in the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors, I have come to realize that "networking" is more about "self", whereas connection is more about "others". Art vs.Virtue.
The vast majority of people are happy talk about themselves, if you are nervous or unsure how to make an approach, develop a stock of openi ended questions,,the rest comes a lot easier,
connection is so much important to every body if really you desire to make a history in live. through connection,we are able to know others,know their culture,exchange ideas etc.When we connect we learn allow others to come closer us,businesses grow,so it is good to connect. Sone Charles
Some people say that I am a great connector, but the truth is that I cannot help not helping when I can help! :). I learn that it is much easier and happier to do something you can do, and you never know when that opportunity come back, either when I never expect that happen. So I am so happy connecting people and helping them get their goal, because that is my goal.