Malcolm Gladwell’s book “The Tipping Point” introduced me to the concept of a “connector”. What a light bulb moment – I finally found a cliché classification I was proud of!
As such, this email shouldn’t come as a surprise. I am wired to stay in touch with good people I meet. Maybe one day I will have a chance to help you or connect you to your new employer, best friend, investor, hiking buddy, business partner, or mentee…
This email is the first in a (hopefully) monthly series. To make this connection meaningful, each message will talk about a topic that is both fun and thought-provoking.
All feedback on the frequency, content, or format of this monthly communication is welcome.
Funny enough, one of my former long-term clients is literally called Connection.
Another former client was called Advanced Interconnect. The company made cable connectors that wouldn’t falter against the odds – under water, in freezing temperatures, in outer space, in a butcher shop (splattered with blood daily), or plugged/unplugged constantly.
Let’s you and me stay connected against the odds.
Why am I a connector?
Very simple – I am a sucker for gratification. So, I stay in touch with many people for the sheer chance to do something for them and hear them say “thank you” in response.
How does a connector operate?
To me, it is a three-step model:
- Meet people who are trying to make a difference
- Demonstrate that there is value in our meaningful connection
- Stay connected and ask for opportunities to help
Is a connector and a networker one and the same?
On the surface, it would appear so. Indeed, the personalities overlap a great deal. To me, the biggest difference is in the depth of the connection. A networker will shake as many hands at a social event as a connector. In fact, a networker might walk out having met more people and having had more lighthearted conversations. A connector, like myself, would go to a social event with a goal of meeting one new friend – someone they connect (click) with.
How do I learn if we click?
When meeting people I lead off with vulnerability and ask sincere questions. If you reciprocated with vulnerability and sincerity, then your punishment is that you are now receiving this email as a way of staying connected. 😊
Do you want to continue this conversation? Can I help you, perhaps with a connection to someone? Do you have ideas to discuss? Please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Mikhail
Mikhail Papovsky
Founder and CEO | M A S S A R O
linkedin.com/in/mpapovsky
