LESSONS FROM "SURVIVOR"

One of the hottest shows on American television is “Survivor.” This show takes place on a remote Pacific island, where a group of 16 participants are left with little food and water for 39 days. Every third day, the group votes off one of its members. The final member left on the island at the end of the 39 days receives 1 million US dollars.

At first thought, the strongest of the group would probably be expected to be on the island the longest. But, this has proven to not necessarily be the case. One strong alliance developed among a core group of 4 participants, after a number of others had been voted from the island. By this group voting together, they have been able to control several recent banishments, and are in a position to continue their control. The banishments have been some of the strongest of the group. The strongest members represented more of a threat to members of the alliance than weaker members.

How do alliances impact your life? Alliances can be powerful, and may be used for good or evil. They can exist in all organizations, from the largest corporations, to small entrepreneurial firms, to civic groups. Developing skills to build alliances can be a powerful way to enhance your effectiveness. Moreover, recognizing alliances that can develop to block your progress is also important.

Consider enhancing your social network. Cultivate resources you can draw upon if you need to form an alliance quickly. Work your network, maintaining strong contact with your most important resources. Maintaining a tight network with a large number of people is difficult. Consider developing a first tier of 10 or so of your most important resources to interact with frequently. Develop a second tier for less frequent contact. Enlist others to join your cause, ad hoc, when needed.

You may not be one of the strongest people in the world, but by linking arms with others, and multiplying your strength, you can move mountains. While many decry the politics of alliances, they are a fact of life in our world, and are key to achieving success in many areas of life.

Become a master alliance builder. But, use your alliances for noble purposes.