A Friend of a Friend: Not Just for Job Hunters

David Burkus expressed regret that his book about network science - A Friend of a Friend - is often disregarded by organizations because they perceive its main use to be getting a better job and leaving.

David Burkus - Best Friends Ever!

While that’s definitely possible, it’s not my experience. That book was incredibly useful to me. I’ve found a solid understand of network science helps the most when working within a complex organization. If you’ve ever tried to break down silos, change a long standing policy or influence decisions being made 5 levels above you, network science is for you.

If you understand who in your company serves as connectors, you are better prepared to influence and manage change. You don’t have to convince every single person in the company - you just have to enlist the connectors. You only need to influence 25% of a community to reach a tipping point.

Do you know who they are?

They often aren’t easy to find on an org chart. The magic isn’t in the title.

I’m a super connector. I used to get calls from people all the time with the intro of «I have no idea how to get this done or who to even ask but I thought you would know.»

I used this in my day job, my ERG volunteer work and in my work in innovation. Internal and external collaboration tools like Yammer and LinkedIn helped to accelerate the connections and grow awareness for my initiatives.

I often use network maps in my content because the power of networks is unmatched - it’s a visual reminder.

So it’s only logical that I apply this science to my consulting work.

Likely you are not a decision maker who is in charge of transforming the leadership, culture and processes to optimize hybrid/remote. But you might know someone who is involved in this and who is looking for help. It coukd be your own employer. Maybe it’s a friend or a relative but maybe it’s the coworker you adored 3 jobs ago. You are still connected but don’t talk often.

My ask is to consider your network - especially the weak ties - and introduce me or my work. It can be as simple as passing along my website, email or LinkedIn profile. An intro via DM is great too but it depends on your comfort level.

www.nolasimon.com

nola@nolasimon.com

https://lnkd.in/gqXsjvi3