A few network mapping tools were suggested to us on the project of mapping our digital presence. I chose to use two, one for my Social Network (Facebook) and one for my Professional Network (LinkedIn). These were very eye opening, to say the least. The first thing I noticed was that although I am at the centre of these network maps, that is only because I was the generator, and the population was by definition placed in relation to me. What I was NOT, however, was the most connected, or even the most relevant person in either map. Those titles would belong to some truly powerful connectors. While this initially caused me some concern (I’d have been expected to be the dominant connector in my own social and professional networks after all!), I came ta realize that I not only understand, but prefer this situation.
When I was mentoring for the Big Brothers organization, I asked a young man what he wanted to be when he was older, and he answered “Famous”. This amazed me. In my youth, the answer would have almost always been a profession, or occasionally something like ‘rock star’ or ‘pro athlete’; all things that would be awarded on some sort of merit or social contribution. But to be ‘famous’ one can do a lot of different things, these days, many of them not aligned with social progress! So I realized that I would prefer to be connected to people who were not only influential, connected, and prominent, but also ethical and aligned with my views of social progress. I will leave the ‘most connected’ award to others, and their own priorities concerning digital identity.
This was a great exercise. It has caused me to already re-evluate not only my connections in general, but some specific cases where I should devote more attention to curating the relationships that are the most effective for me, and my vision of the greater good. Sometimes this will lead me to seek alignment with people who I think can advance my goals, sometimes I’ll seek to build better links with some people I think I can help. In any case, I’ll be much more deliberate about my presence in these domains (more on this in my digital identity plan, coming soon!)