Become a Connector!

Connectors know people across different social and professional circles and make a habit of introducing people to each other. They are skilled at merging groups of people with similar interests to spark new collaborations. Here’s a simple way to identify key connectors in your network and become one yourself!

• Create a table of 5 columns as shown below:

• Add the name and information of people in your network to rows under Columns 1-3; use as many rows as you need
• Add the name of the individual who introduced you to each person in Column 4
• Add the name(s) to whom you introduced this person in Column 5
• Look for repeated names in Column 4

The more you see the same name appear, take note! These are your network “connectors” and have been very important to growing your network.

• Reflect on Column 5

How many of these cells have names and how many are many blank? Strive to become a “connector” in other people’s networks by introducing them to people you know, filling in as many of the blank cells as possible. 

When you act as a connector, you make relationships happen and strengthen your network. By doing so, people are much more likely to think about you for new opportunities as well.