Description

Erica is a friend I met on the train from Machu Picchu in Peru - the perfect example of the strength of weak ties. She has spent a lot of years working with start-ups and since 2014 has started The Reliants Project - an initiative designed to promote understanding around networks. Erica is originally from the US but now spends her time rotating between Mexico City, London and Hong Kong.

In this conversation we explore the wonderful world of networks: network theory; network graphs; networks types; and the importance of a diverse network. How to build a network and the major changes that tend to disrupt our networks: moving to a new place; changing jobs; becoming a couple or breaking up; having children; and illnesses . We explore Erica's approach to forming meaning connections, network fragility and being 'adopted' when travelling.

Her desire to increase the value of social capital, to support the development of a more relationship-oriented society and reduce male loneliness and isolation, all serve as real-world examples are synergy in action!

The seeds that were planted in my garden from this conversation were:

1. The strength of your relationships is the strongest indicator of whether you live a long and healthy life. This is particularly important for males, who generally speaking, tend to have 'shoulder to shoulder relationships' and usually outsource the responsibility of maintaining relationships to organizations (Their company, sports club, gym etc.). This can mean male networks can lack the necessary depth of connection or are fragile to organizational/circumstantial changes.
2. Unstructured time with friends and family is also really important. Unlike structured time, where there is an agreed activity and timeline, it allows us to have emergent play and fun. To go with the flow and create together.
3. "The small group is the unit of transformation" - A small group of people working together is the best means of transforming our world.

It was such a pleasure to converse with Erica and an even greater fortunate to be able to share what was discussed with you. I really hope there was something you were able to get out of this conversation and until next time, keep planting seeds of synergy everywhere you go!

References:

Harvard Business Review: Better People Analytics

Harvard longitudinal study

Max Dickins Podcast with Chris Williamson

Mapping your network

Links:

Erica Young Linkedin

The Reliants Project Website

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