Person 1: I know you!
Person 2: Who are you…?
Recently, I found an interesting blog by Hank Blank covering the topic: networking. One particular entry, called “It’s not about who you know. It’s about who knows you”, caught my attention because I recalled this phrase being mentioned during class. Immediately, “word of mouth” appeared in my mind. Words spread quickly due to two reasons: either someone has a good reputation or the opposite. In a society with media like LinkedIn serving as the basis for networking, it is nearly impossible to stand out.
For instance, consider the situation of applying for a job. Imagine the hundreds of resumes that a company receives. Perhaps, some resumes are recycled before viewing by potential employers. The chances of being hired are slim, but what happens if the “people of influence” know who you are? By having your skills interwoven into your network web, words become an opportunity. Likewise, a brand’s success is based upon “word of mouth” because reputation is acquired when someone knows you and can relate you to your assets. If no one can recall your name, then you have earned the title: know-you not.
http://hankblank.wordpress.com/2012/07/05/its-not-about-who-know-you-its-about-who-knows-you/