(The attainment of the tipping point that transforms a phenomenon into an influential trend usually requires the intervention
of a number of influential types of people. In the disease epidemic model Gladwell introduced in Chapter 1, he demonstrated that many outbreaks could be traced back to
a small group of infectors. Likewise, on the path toward the tipping point, many trends are ushered into popularity by small groups of individuals that can be
classified as Connectors, Mavens, and Salesmen.
Connectors are individuals who have ties in many different realms and act as conduits between them, helping to engender connections, relationships, and “cross-
fertilization” that otherwise might not have ever occurred. Mavens are people who have a strong compulsion to help other consumers by helping them make informed
decisions. Salesmen are people whose unusual charisma allows them to be extremely persuasive in inducing others’ buying decisions and behaviors. Gladwell and Dr. Henry
identify a number of examples of past trends and events that hinged on the influence and involvement of Connectors, Mavens, and Salesmen at key moments in their
development. This week discuss: which of the above you would like to be and why. Stretch yourself and become the tipping point.) I chose Maven for myself.
Write 2 separate responses each in APA, 250 words, and 2 references. The responses are two separate reflections of the response below.

After reading the reading assignment for the week, I am certain of who I am and who I am not. Typically, I am a social butterfly, when I am comfortable. I usually
speak to various people and try to make a connection when possible. To me, I fit the bill of someone who is a “connector.” Writer Malcolm Gladwell states that
Connectors “are kinds of people who know everyone,” (The Tipping Point, p 38). As a new teacher, I realized the importance of friendships. It is unfortunate, but
teaching is often times a battle of, “who you know.” There have been many cases of teachers receiving jobs because of their acquaintances. I was one of these people.
When I could not find a job, I reached out to a former employer with the school system who placed me within the county, and I moved on up from there.

Being a Connector has benefits. However, I would like to branch out of my comfort zone and explore a part of “The Tipping Point, “ that I normally would not. I would
like to be a Salesman. By trade, I am not a persuasive person. I would not be able to sell anything if my life depended on it. According to writer Geoffrey James,
“Buyers and sellers are emotional human beings, which is why great salespeople are always masters at managing their own emotions,” (James, N.d). I would love to be
able to transform myself into someone that is persuasive and intentional. Using emotions and deliberate facts, I would be able to reach a goal that I would never be
able to do by simply being a Connector. Being a Connector is as easy as knowing a people. Being a salesman requires emotion, depth, and knowledge. Without these
factors, the purpose of a salesman would be null and void. I believe being a Salesman would help me to break out of my shell a little bit when it comes to matters
that are important. Like I stated before, I am not shy, when it comes to a social sense. However, when it involves work, I immediately clam up. I do not state or
argue my point at all. I feel that being a Salesman would help me with this issue. I would be able to voice my opinion easily and make valid point. This would help
me be a more productive teacher and voice for my students.

References

Gladwell, M. (2006). The tipping point: How little things can make a big difference. New York: Little, Brown and Co.

James, G. (n.d.). 5 Traits of Highly Successful Salespeople. Retrieved August 10, 2016, from http://www.inc.com/geoffrey-james/5-traits-of-highly-successful-
salesmen.html