So Today...

I was fortunate enough to read the book, “Trust Agents” by Chris Brogan and Julien Smith. Trust Agents claims “people tend to form networks naturally.” The rise of social networks has increased the question of, “What are we doing right now?” Our networks increase with the amount of people we make social connections with. There are certain ways to do this correctly, certain ways to keep it up, and then certain ways to further your life in a positive way by maintaining the valued presence. Trust Agents develops this sort of theory that if you can become a ‘trust agent’ yourself, you will have the power to rule the online world. Social media gives us that power. No matter where we are at any given point, we are able to spread ideas from the center of ourselves as the core of the network. Social media gives us the opportunity to seek out and meet influential people. ‘Trust agents’ help out others to build stronger networks by doing three things: “promoting the good work that others do, sharing even their best stuff without hesitation, and by finding ways to deliver even more value on top of all that without asking for anything in return.”  Sounds very familiar to another great read called “The Tipping Point” by Malcom Gladwell. (Which, Btw everyone should read) He had the same thing to say about ‘Connectors’ working together with ‘Mavens’ to create a movement. Social media let’s us start this movement where all the influential and knowledgeable people can come together and create something. According to Gladwell, a maven is a person, “who has information on a lot of different products or prices or places, initiates discussions with consumers and responds to request… a person who is more socially motivated.”  The web helps us connect with these people and opens our lives to another world. Helping others helps you become a trustworthy person online. In return, you develop the best relationships with people you have never met before. 

How many great connections have you made through social media?