How high is your connectivity quotient?
From networking to social media to video conferences, society has countless ways to connect.
The Connectivity Quotient (CQ) is a term we coined at Gambel Communications to express the strategic value of connectedness. It is the degree to which people and ideas intersect to advance your communications objectives.
Connections are the lifeblood of our public relations approach, and CQ reflects the ability to develop and steward stakeholder relationships.
WHY IS CONNECTIVITY IMPORTANT?
From the old guard networking of the past to today's multicultural inclusive approaches to business, connections not only still matter, but they are also, in fact, more important than ever.
CQ is the fulcrum of the social equation that balances powerful connections with personal relationships. It can determine or predict one’s success. CQ is your gauge to set and monitor.
We take CQ into account in all our work, helping client leaders strategically connect with the people, partners, community organizations and public entities that matter to their goals.
HOW DO YOU MEASURE THE IMPACT OF CQ?
When we consider quantifying CQ, we think about elements we can measure from media reach and frequency to the number of speaking opportunities and meetings one secures to social media engagement. We also examine the indirect value of great connections such as the strength of one’s personal brand, community involvement, quality-of-life and friendships.
Connections are not formed by accident, nor are they simply the result of affable personalities. A strong CQ requires intentionality and stewardship. Think about ways you connect with your network interpersonally and through various channels of communication. There are ways you can be strategic and focused in your CQ.
1. Build your personal brand. Everything you do communicates something about you. Be mindful of your choices with what you post online, how you present yourself, as well as how you speak and write. It will all build your brand (or not).
2. Develop mutual relationships. Network with others with purpose. Ask questions and get to know others – what motivates them, how you can help them, etc. It will come back to you in the end if it’s done with authenticity and genuine interest in mind.
3. Do more than is expected. The Gen X’r in me loves this one. Exceed expectations at every turn to get noticed and develop respect and long-term relationships. Everywhere you go, you are planting seeds to grow and harvest the fruits of your labor.
Thinking about it through this lens, how strong is your CQ? What will you do next to elevate it?