Know Your Strength for More Success: Are you a Connector, a Maven, or a Salesman?

In his book “The Tipping Point”, Malcolm Gladwell explores the different types of people that contribute to the spread of ideas and trends. He identifies three key groups: Connectors, Mavens, and Salesmen. Each group has specific strengths that allow them to excel in their own unique way.

Connectors are people specialists. They have a natural talent for networking and building relationships with others. They are the glue that holds social groups together and thrive on connecting people with one another. Connectors are extremely valuable as they are often the catalyst for change and innovation.

The strength of Connectors is that they know and keep in touch with many people. They also tend to associate with other Connectors. Because of their rich network of friends and acquaintances, Connectors are trendsetters. The upside of being a Connector is that they are able to create and maintain long-lasting friendships. The downside is that Connectors can be dazzled by their vast collection of acquaintances, without investing in real friendships.

The power of social media on the internet is the power of connectors. Power-users of StumbleUpon or Digg are Connectors. They can make or break the success of a blog post because they are people specialists who cultivate a network of online friends.

Mavens, on the other hand, are information specialists. They have an insatiable appetite for knowledge and excel at finding and sharing information with others. They are the ones who always have ‘the inside scoop’ on what’s hot, new, and interesting.

Mavens amass a vast store of knowledge and are eager to share it with others. They often seek out the latest trends and deals, whether it be in technology, fashion, or food. They are the ones on the internet who are the first to investigate new software or gadgets, and they always have valuable insights to share.

Mavens want to educate, not to sell. They take delight in finding out the special deals that will save them money. They are interested in new technology and are always happy to share their findings with others.

Salesmen are charismatic. They have the ability to build instant rapport with others and gain their trust. Salesmen are able to tune in to the emotions of others and use their emotional intelligence to build strong relationships. They are natural leaders who are able to inspire and motivate those around them.

Salesmen make good politicians, spiritual teachers and pastors, and, well…salespeople. Salesmen are larger than life and can make others feel good with their high spirits. The downside of salesmen is that they can be dangerous if they use their charisma in order to manipulate others.

So which type are you? Most of us have some talent in all three areas. But there will be one area where you have answered most answers with ‘yes’. That is your primary orientation.

The strategy of enhancing our talents means that we should foster the strength we have as a Connector, a Maven, or a Salesman. As a Connector, we can focus on connecting others with each other and creating groups where people feel at home. As a Maven, we can focus on sharing our knowledge with others so that they can benefit from our research. And as a Salesman, we can focus on making others happy with our good cheer.

In conclusion, knowing your primary orientation as a Connector, Maven or Salesman can have a significant impact on your personal and professional life. Focusing on your strengths and using them to your advantage can help you achieve more success and happiness. So take some time to reflect on your natural talents and abilities and see how you can use them to make a positive impact on those around you.