The last couple of months have been a busy time at Cambridge Network and I’ve been fortunate enough to attend a number of in-person events – ranging from larger groups, such as our recent CEO Secrets and Technology and Humanities presentations, through to a small event supporting students at Homerton College.
We all recognise and understand the multiple benefits that networking brings, not just to the individual but the organisation as well – these were expertly captured in a recent article by Sarah Reakes from KISS. But I turned my attention to the super-connectors I met at the various events and the vital role they play in making the local technology ecosystem tick.
You probably wouldn’t notice one if you passed them in the street – they are not defined by their age or appearance. Your first experience will probably be someone enthusiastically saying to you ‘you must meet so-and-so, I’ll make an introduction’.
The simple question is – what do they do?
Well, they use their extensive knowledge of the eco-system, and the other Super-Connectors, to help people and organisations thrive – be that making an introduction to a potential customer, collaborator, expert advice or source of funding. Anyone who has tried cold-calling will know how hard it is and how much easier it is if the first line of the call is ‘so-and-so suggested I call you….’. They also use their knowledge of the ecosystem to help people navigate efficiently, straight to the source of help.
The tougher question is – why do they do it?
Sometimes they are experienced entrepreneurs who have been successful and want what’s best for the city and those trying to operate in it. Sometimes, it’s people like me, where a significant part of our job is to make connections and foster collaborations. Finally, it’s people who just have a wonderful, natural, desire to help and be helpful.
I won’t embarrass anyone by name checking them – they know who they are – but they are a vital part of what makes the Cambridge eco-system so successful.
Come along to some of our events – you’ll know one when you meet them!
Image: Vertigo3d, Getty Images Signature via Canva