Book Review: Connection Generation

The official website describes Connection Generation as a 'fascinating and remarkable study of how connection affects our place in society and business and the challenges and opportunities this connectedness presents.' The cover said that it shows how 'connection determines our place in society and business'.

I think Iggy Pintados first book does more than that. His analysis of the 5 types of connectors really helped me learn how people interact with others online. I later realized just how useful this information can be.

The Five Levels on Connection.

Basic

• spend minimal time on networking sites
• Have some contacts, but they may not be public
• Use a small number of devices
• Have a tradition, conservative attitude

Passive

Passive connectors are very similar to basic. They may have more contacts and occasionally know someone Iggy calls a connection agent.

Selective

• See social networking as a way to maintain relationships
• Have 100-150 people visible and know who to connect with on a business level
• They are very selective with their  use, both with time spent and devices used

Active

• Spend a lot of time connecting with people
• Have multiple, visible contacts from many groups and social networks

Super

• Spend the maximum amount of time they can
• Have numerous and diverse contacts from multiple networks.

How this information is useful

I was fascinated just reading about the different levels of connection, but I was also interested in the practical applications of this information.

It can help with the creation of buyer personas

It can help businesses and advertisors learn how their target audience interacts with online content. They can then develop social media strategies that will reach the right people.

You can ascertain your level of connectivity

This can be really useful when working online. You can identify any weaknesses and then do your own research on how you can change how connected you are.

It can help you manage employees

Once you discover what type of connector they are, you can then develop strategies to help them connect with their workmates and clients.

How did it help me?

This book made me realize that I was a super connector and that I had more leverage than I thought. It made me change some of my habits so I could be more useful to others. It also showed me that I was able to help others understand social networks.

This doesn't immediately translate into income, but it really helped me change my mindset. That, in itself, was priceless.

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