Lesson 8 - Think about what and who you can bring to the table.

At the beginning of your career, it's more important to build a strong technical foundation.

What this means is a deep understanding of reality and how things work.

A deep understanding comes from knowledge or experience, which means having seen or done things.

Only then can you begin to see patterns and think in more abstract terms.

Only then can you get things done.

After that, use your accomplishments to build your credibility and reputation so you can garner the respect of others.

With others' respect, you can build a strong network that will help you navigate the world and get more things done.

Armed with both an expertise and a team or a network, you will naturally be invited to a seat at the table.

A seat at the table will connect you to other individuals that can give you a broader understanding of the world and a wider network.

Others witnessing your growing knowledge and network will want to invite you to their tables as well.

All of these invitations and participation will expand your circle of influence and your ability to achieve even greater accomplishments.

And that is how you establish a virtuous cycle and grow your network effect.

In summary:

Your knowledge and experience give you the ability to accomplish things, which rewards you with additional resources and the respect of others, both of which expand your network, which opens up opportunities for you to gain more knowledge and experience, and the virtuous cycle continues.

Knowledge/Experience --> Ability --> Accomplishment --> Resource/Respect --> Network --> Opportunity --> Knowledge/Experience