The No. 1 Predictor Of Career Success: Open Networks and the Power of Connection

The No. 1 Predictor Of Career Success: Open Networks and the Power of Connection

In the ever-evolving landscape of career success, there is one factor that stands out above all others: the power of open networks. Multiple peer-reviewed studies have confirmed that simply being in an open network, as opposed to a closed one, is the best predictor of achieving success in one's career. This may seem intuitive, as open networks provide individuals with new perspectives, deeper understanding, and the ability to generate innovative ideas.

When we are part of an open network, we have a more accurate view of the world. Open networks allow us to pull information from diverse clusters, enabling us to gain a well-rounded understanding of various subjects. This diversity of knowledge also helps to cancel out errors, as we can cross-reference information from different sources. Research conducted by Philip Tetlock has shown that individuals with open networks are better forecasters than those with closed networks.

One of the key benefits of being in an open network is the ability to serve as a translator or connector between groups. By bridging the gap between different communities, individuals can create value by connecting two people or organizations that may not have otherwise encountered each other. This role of an intermediary is crucial in fostering collaboration and facilitating mutually beneficial relationships.

Interestingly, the top-performing studies have revealed that references within open networks are 90% conventional and 10% atypical, pulling from other fields. This finding holds true across various fields and has remained consistent over time. People with open networks have a natural inclination towards creating atypical combinations, which fuels creativity and innovation. As Steve Jobs famously said, "Creativity is just connecting things." The broader our understanding of the human experience, the better equipped we are to design and innovate.

Now that we understand the significance of open networks in career success, let's explore some practical advice on how to leverage this knowledge in our own lives.

Firstly, it is crucial to avoid the pitfall of unleashing the highlighter on our first pass of a text or document. Before we can determine what is truly important, we must first read the material thoroughly. Take the time to absorb the information, walk away from it, and reflect on the key takeaways. Then, when revisiting the text, use the highlighter to mark the essential points. This approach ensures that our highlighting is informed and purposeful.

Secondly, writing our own notes is an essential part of processing and understanding information. Instead of solely relying on highlighting, actively engage with the material by putting concepts into your own words. This process of summarizing and paraphrasing not only aids in comprehension but also commits the information to memory. The renowned physicist Richard Feynman referred to this technique as the "Feynman technique," emphasizing the importance of actively digesting and making sense of concepts.

Lastly, while highlighting is a valuable tool, it should never be a substitute for note-taking. Highlighting works best in conjunction with note-taking, as it allows us to mark important quotes or passages while also providing space for our own thoughts and insights. To avoid confusion, it is essential to use different colors or symbols for highlighting quotes that serve different purposes. This ensures clarity and organization, enabling us to revisit our notes and gain a comprehensive understanding of the material.

In conclusion, the power of open networks and the ability to connect with diverse communities and ideas is the number one predictor of career success. By actively seeking out opportunities to broaden our networks and engage with different fields, we can unlock our full potential and foster innovation. Remember, as Steve Jobs wisely stated, "You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward." Trust in the power of connection, follow your curiosity, and have faith that the dots will align in your future.

Actionable Advice:

• 1. Take the time to read and absorb information before using a highlighter. This ensures that your highlighting is purposeful and informed.

• 2. Embrace the power of note-taking to actively engage with and process information. Put concepts into your own words to enhance understanding and memory retention.

• 3. Use different colors or symbols to differentiate the purpose of your highlights. This helps maintain clarity and organization in your notes.

Remember, success is within reach for all of us. It may require stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing the unknown, but the rewards are worth the journey. Open networks and the power of connection can propel us towards new heights in our careers and lives. So, let us embrace the opportunities that lie ahead, connect the dots, and create a future filled with success and fulfillment.