Introduction
Things have changed thoroughly when it comes to communication. People are available online, scrolling, chasing likes, views, and followers. We scroll endlessly, hoping to find a connection, but often end up feeling more alone. While we’re told that going viral is the goal, a different path may be more powerful and more human.
Dr. Ravi Iyer, a TEDx speaker and behavioural scientist, provides a new perspective: actual influence is not about building your audience; it’s about building your relationships. His TEDx presentations, particularly “The Power of Connection” and “The Power of Community for Viruses, Warthogs, and TEDx Virality,” explain why community holds the key to long-term impact.
The Problem with Traditional Influence
For so long, we’ve learned that if we work harder, post more, and better brand ourselves, then we’ll achieve success as an influencer. But what this does is play into the “attention economy”, an economy that rewards distraction, outrage, and fleeting dopamine.
This system compels us to compete, compare, and constantly perform. And what’s the result? Burnout, disconnection, and heightened feelings of isolation.
Dr. Iyer refers to this as the “attention economy trap”. It’s a trap whereby we attempt to engage individuals’ attention rather than establishing relationships that are truly valued.
The Role of Connections
In his TEDxUMKC talk, Dr. Iyer explains how human brains are wired for connection, and for that, helping, sympathising, and supporting others are the main things that we naturally do. And probably special media platforms, and these apps are also triggering these things as a whole.
However, when we focus on real people, not metrics, we reclaim our attention and our purpose. Real connection pulls us out of distraction and brings us into community.
TEDx and the Power of Collective Growth
So, how do TEDx talks get viral? The answer is shocking: it’s not about popularity; it’s about mutual support.
Something just happened at TEDxHandleyBlvd Women: speakers stopped self-promoting and started promoting each other, sharing, supporting, and celebrating each other’s messages. The result: everyone grows together. Views skyrocketed, engagement shot up, and the talks reached people in ways they haven’t before.
That’s the power of community amplification : when we all lift each other up, impact can be bigger than anyone can achieve on their own.
From “Me” to “We”
It’s simple to get caught up in self-promotion. However, things can be changed if you switch from Me to We. This is absolutely a commendable phenomenon that makes a huge difference.
Here’s what that looks like:
- Want to grow? Help someone else grow.
- Want to stay focused? Join a mission that matters.
- Want to cut through the noise? Build real relationships.
Dr. Iyer’s message reminds us that true influence comes from shared purpose, not solo performance. When we build with others, our work becomes more meaningful and impactful.
Community Helps Us Stay Focused
Being part of a community doesn’t just help our ideas spread. It allow you to:
- Stay engaged in our work
- Resist distractions
- Pursue meaningful goals
- Build trust that lasts beyond trends
Community creates space for deep focus, not just fast fame.
Why This Matters Now More Than Ever
Today, more than ever, we’re searching for meaning. It means people want to build stronger and long-lasting connections. And while influencers may have reach, connectors have impact.
A connector is someone who brings people together, shares generously, and builds bridges instead of walls. And that’s what TEDx does so well: it’s not just about a single idea but the shared energy of many voices coming together.
Last to Say
There is no need to chase the algorithms. Focus on making connections because real change happens when we come together, share ideas, and support one another’s growth.
So next time you feel the urge to go viral, ask yourself this: Who can I lift today? Because when you move together, you go ahead with a proper support system, always pushing you forward.
Source: Why Community Is the New Influencer – Lessons from Viral TEDx Talks
