• Climbers are always acutely aware of who is ahead of them and who is behind them in the standings or on the organizational chart. Connectors, on the other hand, are focused on moving over to where other people are.
2. Climbers focus on position—Connectors focus on relationships
• Because climbers are always thinking about moving up, they are often focused on their position. However, connectors are more focused on relationships.
3. Climbers value competition—Connectors value cooperation
• Climbers see nearly everything as a competition. For some, that can mean trying to win at all costs. Connectors, however, are more interested in using their relationships with others to foster cooperation. They see working together as a win.
4. Climbers seek power—Connectors seek partnerships
• If your mind-set is always to win, then you naturally want power because it helps you to climb faster and reach the top more quickly. The way to create really high-powered teams is to form partnerships, which is what connectors are more likely to do.
5. Climbers build their image—Connectors build consensus
• Because movement either up or down the ladder often depends on other people’s perception of their performance, climbers are often concerned with their image. Connectors are more concerned with getting everyone on the same page so that they can work together.
6. Climbers want to stand apart—Connectors want to stand together
• Climbers want to distinguish themselves from everybody else in the organization. Connectors, on the other hand, find ways to get closer to other people, to find common ground that they can stand on together.
From "Leadership Gold" by John Maxwell
