The Law of the Few: Well, there is nothing better when considering epidemic-like events than discussing the spread of STDs…but it does help make the case for how a few people can spread an idea or a product. The 80/20 rule seems to apply well especially as Gladwell describes the characteristics of the few as how much more “sociable they are, or how energetic or knowledgeable or influential among their peers.” (Page 21) Think about people in your circles whose influence seems to outweigh the average person, do you listen to them? Do they impact you? Are you that person?
Stickiness Factor: The ability for something to remain appears to be a key factor, essentially it has to “stick” with you in order to make the kind of impact Gladwell describes. “Stickiness means that a message makes an impact.” (Page 25) What was the last thing that “stuck” in your head? Was it a song, a commercial, a person, an event?
The Power of Context: Understanding the situation people find themselves in is the last rule and states “that human beings are a lot more sensitive to their environment than they may seem.” (Page 29) The “bystander problem” as described in this chapter was pretty alarming to me, and made me think about when I see an accident or lose power in the neighborhood. I mostly assume someone has already called 911 or the power company and I don’t pick up the phone. I do not always act because in context, there are so many people in the same situation, assumptions are easy to make. Does the environment impact you? How do you feel when you come home to a sink full of dishes, you witness an argument, or it rains on the day you planned that big outdoor event?
Gladwell is making the case, or perhaps building his case that these three rules need to be in place in order to pass the tipping point. Have just one of these, and it is not enough. You have two of them? Sorry, you still need another one. Can you think of an example of each rule in your own experience? If so, please share it with the group.
As a reminder, please read a chapter each week, post a thought about the reading, and comment on at least one other person’s post.
Carl Weber Consulting 