The No. 1 Predictor Of Career Success According To Network Science

Kazuki

Hatched by Kazuki

Jul 11, 2023

3 min read

0

The No. 1 Predictor Of Career Success According To Network Science

In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, career success is a goal that many aspire to achieve. But what is the key to reaching new heights in your professional life? According to multiple, peer-reviewed studies, the answer lies in your network.

Simply being in an open network instead of a closed one is the best predictor of career success. This may seem like a simple concept, but its implications are profound. An open network allows individuals to tap into a more accurate view of the world. It provides them with the ability to pull information from diverse clusters, allowing errors to cancel themselves out.

Research by Philip Tetlock further supports this notion. His findings reveal that people with open networks are better forecasters than those with closed networks. The ability to serve as a translator or connector between groups is a valuable skill possessed by individuals in open networks. They have the power to create value by connecting two people or organizations who can help each other, even if they wouldn't normally run into each other.

Interestingly, the top-performing studies in this field had references that were 90% conventional and 10% atypical. This means that individuals with open networks are more easily able to create atypical combinations, which can lead to innovative ideas and solutions. As Steve Jobs famously said, "Creativity is just connecting things." When we have a broader understanding of the human experience, we can create better designs and make meaningful connections.

So how can we apply this knowledge to our own careers? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

  • 1. Cultivate an open network: Seek out opportunities to connect with individuals from different backgrounds and industries. Attend conferences, join professional organizations, and engage in online communities. The more diverse your network, the greater your chances of gaining new perspectives and generating fresh ideas.
  • 2. Be a connector: Look for ways to bring people together who can benefit from each other's expertise. Serve as an intermediary and facilitate connections that may not happen organically. By doing so, you not only create value for others but also enhance your own reputation as a valuable resource.
  • 3. Embrace atypical combinations: Don't be afraid to draw inspiration from unconventional sources. Explore fields outside of your own and find ways to incorporate their ideas into your work. This willingness to think outside the box can lead to breakthrough innovations and set you apart from the competition.

In conclusion, the power of an open network cannot be underestimated. It is the key to unlocking career success and fostering innovation. By actively cultivating diverse connections, serving as a connector, and embracing atypical combinations, we can position ourselves for greater opportunities and make meaningful contributions in our respective fields. As Steve Jobs wisely said, "You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward." So have faith, follow your heart and curiosity, and trust that the dots will connect in your future.

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