The Truth About “Six Degrees of Separation”- Becoming a Master Connector in a Global Network

Have you ever heard that you’re just six connections away from anyone in the world? This idea, known as the “Six Degrees of Separation,” has been popular for years. It is suggesting that we’re all linked by a small chain of acquaintances. But what if I told you that this widely accepted notion is actually a myth? 

In my book The 29% Solution, I take a deep dive into the origins of this concept and uncover the truth.

The Experiment: 

The idea stems from a study conducted by social psychologist Stanley Milgram in the 1960s. Milgram’s experiment involved several hundred people who were tasked with getting a packet from someone in the USA Midwest to a stockbroker in Boston, Massachusetts through a chain of acquaintances. He found that, on average, it took about six steps to get the packet to its destination. However, here’s the catch: only 29% of participants successfully delivered the packet. That means 71% of people couldn’t connect with the intended recipient. 

The Myth: 

This is where the myth of six degrees falls apart. The media embraced the idea of six degrees of separation, overlooking the fact that less than a third of participants succeeded. The reality is that not everyone is connected by six degrees. In fact, most people aren’t. So, how do you become part of the 29% who are truly connected? 

Becoming a Master Connector 

The key to becoming part of the 29% is to become a Master Connector. These are the individuals who can bridge gaps between people, creating networks that extend far beyond their immediate circles. In Milgram’s study, out of the 24 packets that reached their destination, 16 were delivered through the same person—a clothing merchant. This highlights that not all connections are equal; some people have a unique ability to connect others. These are the Master Connectors we see in networks today. 

In BNI, which now has over 325,000 Members across 76 countries, we see Master Connectors in action every day. These are the Members who bring visitors to meetings, sponsor new Members, and create referral opportunities for others within the network. They understand that building a successful network is not just about the quantity of connections but the quality. By becoming a Master Connector, you position yourself at the center of a powerful referral network.

How to Become a Better Master Connector

So, how can you become one of these special few? Here are some strategies to help you on your journey.  

1. Be Intentional: When you bring a visitor to a BNI meeting, you’re not just adding a number to the group—you’re connecting people. Be intentional about who you invite and how you introduce them to others. Think about the potential value they can bring to the network and how they can benefit from it.

2. Recognize Other Master Connectors: Pay attention to the people in your network who are natural Master Connectors. These are the individuals who consistently bring in visitors and sponsor new Members. Learn from their approach and consider how you can replicate their success.

3. Focus on Building Relationships: Being a Master Connector isn’t just about making introductions; it’s about building lasting relationships. Take the time to get to know the people in your network and understand their needs and goals. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to make meaningful connections that lead to mutually beneficial relationships. 

4. Leverage BNI’s Resources: BNI provides valuable tools and tracking systems that can help you identify and connect with other Master Connectors within the network. Use these resources to your advantage and actively seek out opportunities to connect with others.

The Impact of Being a Master Connector 

Becoming a Master Connector has a ripple effect. When you successfully connect others, you’re not just helping them; you’re also strengthening your own network. The more connections you make, the more opportunities you create for yourself and others. In BNI, we know that referrals are the lifeblood of business and being a Master Connector puts you at the centre of this referral network.   

Moreover, Master Connectors tend to stay longer in the network. Data shows that new Members who sponsor another new Member are more likely to remain active in BNI for multiple years. This makes sense—when you bring in a friend, you’re more invested in the network, and you’re more likely to stay committed to it. 

Final Thoughts

The myth of six degrees of separation may have captured the imagination of many, but the reality is that true connection is about more than just a number. It’s about being intentional, building relationships, and becoming a Master Connector. By focusing on these principles, you can join the ranks of the 29% who are truly connected and contributing to BNI’s mission of Changing the Way the World Does Business®. 

For more insights and strategies on becoming a Master Connector, I encourage you to check out The 29% Solution. It’s available on audiobook and Kindle, and it provides 52 weekly networking success strategies that can help you enhance your BNI experience. 

For more related topics on networking and business growth, visit www.ivanmisner.com