Step 5.2: Identify Your Superconnectors
A “Superconnector” is that person you know who can introduce you anyone. You know the type - they’re the one who always “knows a guy” for any need.
Your Superconnectors are going to be the people that help open doors for you - whether the front, side or unlocked back door.
Everyone knows a "guy who knows a guy." But Superconnectors? They ARE the guy.
These aren't networkers. That word will make their skin crawl. They're human routers – people whose real genius isn't who they know, but how they connect the dots between people, opportunities, and needs. They're playing 3D chess while everyone else is playing checkers.
While the average person knows 150 people (Dunbar's Number), and your typical LinkedIn warrior brags about their 500+ connections, Superconnectors operate on a different frequency. They don't just know people – they understand the invisible threads that connect them.
A true Superconnector doesn't collect contacts. They curate connections with surgical precision. They think in terms of value exchanges, not favors. They don't just remember names – they remember stories, ambitions, potential synergies. They see patterns others miss. Most importantly, they get genuine joy from connecting people who should know each other.
Why do they matter? In a world where everyone's shouting "pick me!" through the same LinkedIn megaphone, Superconnectors are the human algorithm that cuts through the noise.
You'll spot them easily. They're the first person you think of when someone says "Who do you know who..." Their introduction emails read like personalized matchmaking. They seem to be everywhere, knowing everyone. They get invited to everything. Interestingly, they're usually not the highest-ranking person in the room, but they know everyone who is.
There’s an art to engaging Superconnectors: be specific about what you're looking for. Make it easy for them to help you. Always close the loop – tell them what happened. Find ways to add value back. Never, ever waste their social capital.
The cardinal rule: Never ask a Superconnector "Who do you know who's hiring?" That's amateur hour. Instead, be precise: "I'm looking to connect with heads of product at Series B fintech companies focused on democratizing access to financial services."
Remember: Superconnectors aren't just doing you a favor. They're investing their social capital in you. That's worth more than money – treat it accordingly.
The best Superconnectors don't think of themselves as Superconnectors. They're just people who get genuine joy from connecting dots and creating value.
Find them. Nurture them. Never abuse their trust.
Because in a world of algorithms and AI, human connection is still the ultimate competitive advantage. And Superconnectors? They're the power grid of human potential.
Plug in wisely.
Your Playbook:
Identify 3-5 Superconnectors who can help you
Reach out to them
Think of them just like your Circle of Advisors - in many cases, they may be both