If you aspire to make a significant impact in life, consider this intriguing strategy that I’ve always instinctively embraced, yet one that I recently learnt — from Ahmed Sidky’s short talk — that it aligns with the research findings of Stanford sociologist Mark Granovette: the strength fo weak ties.
I refer to the strategy as ‘maximally crafted yet minimally maintained’ social networking. Although I haven’t personally delved into the study, my aim in this blog is to just to elucidate why expanding one’s circles of acquaintances is a crucial step toward achieving greater impact and how it can be made possible in today’s busy day.
In terms of sociability, individuals generally fall into two main categories. Observe your family and friends, and you’ll likely discern this distinction.
The first group comprises introverts with a small, intimate social circle. They share a considerable amount of their everyday life stories with this circle, leaving little time or inclination to make new friends or socialize with others. The second group consists of extroverts who also have a small close-knit circle but don’t engage in the same everyday small talk with the, as the first group. This leaves them with time and a desire to expand their acquaintance circle.
Which of the two groups do you think is more likely to be influential and impactful?
The second one.
Why?
Cuz despite the capability and passion of the first group, their ideas and ambitions often revolve within their close circle, that may already be convinced or feign agreement to maintain harmony. Due to their reluctance to reach beyond their immediate social sphere, their ideas remain confined.
Contrast this with the second group, who actively seek out new connections to share their ideas. Their concepts spread and gain traction more effectively than those of the first group. They accomplish this despite having the same 24 hours in a day because they avoid wasting time on small or useless talk even within their closest circle.
So, two key takeaways:
- If you genuinely want to make a difference, minimize trivial conversation. Use small talk as a means to an end, not an end in itself. This means that when establishing a new social connection, discuss weather, food, etc., but once acquainted, shift the conversation to more meaningful topics.
- Don’t shy away from making new connections simply because you lack time to maintain them. Even if you’re busy, strategic communication choices allow you to enjoy the benefits of a large acquaintance circle without compromising your other life goals.
In conclusion, time and people are two indispensable assets. And if we navigate social interactions wisely, both can work to our advantage.
