"What is affinity?": Networking event brings affinity to light

"I just have a quick question," said a woman as she slid into the seat next to me at a networking event. "What is affinity?"

    I replied, "Didn't you mention earlier tonight that you had a dog that passed away?"
    "Yes," she said, and began to smile a bit, pleased that I had remembered.
    "What kind of dog was it?" I asked.
    "A chocolate lab," she replied as her shoulders lifted up.
    "Are you a fan of chocolate labs or were you just into this dog?"
    "I love all dogs," she answered emphatically, her smile widening as she leaned toward me in anticipation of my next question.

Affinity definition: Tribes will form around ideas, leaders

"I'll know it when I see it." These famous words have often been spoken by a number of us. Professionals and volunteers involved in affinity relations or identifying and working with affinity groups recognize that no magic formula exists to determine every affinity or affinity group. Often times, such individuals simply know it when they see it, or know when they see signs that an affinity or affinity group may possibly exist or be developing.

Yesterday's blog looked at a formal definition of affinity. Today we look at an organic concept or definition of affinity, specifically aspects of the book Tribes by Seth Godin that illustrate "I'll know it when I see it." Tribes: We Need You to Lead Us is filled with numerous real-life examples of individuals with shared affinities coming together in support of people, products, ideas, services, causes, companies, and more.

Definition of Affinity: What you don't know can hurt you

Everyone wants to belong, to feel connected to someone or something, to find a fit that leads to comfort, satisfaction, fulfillment, validation, security, convenience, passion, or more.

For years,
Marketers have sought ways to identify people who are a good fit for their causes, products, and services.
Human resources specialists have sought to attract and retain skilled and committed employees.
Leaders have sought to build-up, retain, and inspire those who follow them or support their cause or beliefs.