The story I’m about to share is quite common. A job seeker just lately got here to me with an issue. They’d been trying in all places for the proper job. Lastly, they discovered it. It was simply what they have been on the lookout for, and their expertise have been an ideal match. Even higher, an in depth good friend ought to have the ability to be their advocate. It gave the impression to be a slam dunk alternative, however then, one thing went unsuitable. The shut good friend didn’t observe by means of. They actually let the job seeker down. It was terribly complicated and disheartening.
Have you ever ever had this occur? It could possibly really feel shocking how unhelpful individuals could be after they’re those you really matter on.
In actuality, the individuals who will provide help to to land a job are hardly ever those you’d anticipate. Individuals who assist out are fairly often random individuals you don’t take into consideration very a lot. They’re what’s known as a “weak tie” or a unfastened connection. These are people who find themselves completely different than you. They’re tapped into completely different social networks than you’re, and so they learn about completely different alternatives.
Tanya Menon describes the idea of weak ties in her TEDx Speak. In it, she states that, “weak ties are your ticket to a complete new social world.” And, it’s true. Should you consider who your shut buddies are, they’re typically people who find themselves similar to you. They will be the similar nationality, the identical gender, and so they very possible have the identical political and spiritual views that you just do.
By opening your self as much as people who find themselves completely different than you, you’re unlocking a world of potentialities. You’re creating a brand new community which will provide help to to tune into new alternatives, or might occur to have a connection to the job you’re most keen on. The influence of weak ties is actually exponential.
Chances are you’ll surprise how one can develop your community. In all honesty, it may be tough at first. In her speak, Menon suggests taking a distinct path to do frequent issues at work, reminiscent of getting espresso. One thing like this may be quite simple, however it may create a huge impact.
I strongly imagine on this concept. A lot in order that I’ve taken it to an excessive once in a while. I as soon as took a salsa dancing class in Stockholm, Sweden. I additionally attended a hackathon in Sydney, Australia. It’s a weekend when know-how professionals come collectively to create new merchandise.
You’d be amazed at what number of new connections you can also make whenever you do one thing so uncommon. I’m sure I met no vacationers in Stockholm or Sydney. The contributors have been all locals and I discovered a lot that I might have by no means been uncovered to.
On this time of opposing views, take a second to get to know somebody who’s a bit completely different than you. Chances are you’ll discover that you’ve extra in frequent than you’d have imagined.
Angela Copeland, a profession coach and founding father of Copeland Teaching, could be reached at copelandcoaching.com.
