You’re Invited

About the Author

Jon Levy is a renowned behavioral scientist, celebrated for his profound work in influence, human connection, and decision-making. Over a decade ago, Levy founded The Influencers Dinner, a unique dining experience that gathers industry leaders—from Nobel laureates and Olympians to celebrities and executives—without discussing their careers until seated for dinner. This unique setting fosters genuine connections and has grown into a global community, renowned for its impact and exclusivity.

Main Idea

In You’re Invited: The Art and Science of Cultivating Influence, Jon Levy explores the transformative power of human connection. He asserts that the fundamental element defining the quality of our lives is the people we surround ourselves with and the conversations we have with them. By building meaningful connections, we can amplify our achievements, support each other, and create lasting influence.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• The Influence Equation
• Trust and the IKEA Effect
• Cultivating Connection
• Creating a Path
• Conclusion

Introduction

The book begins by comparing two seemingly disparate figures: Jean Nidetch, founder of Weight Watchers, and Frederick Douglass, a prominent abolitionist. Despite their different paths, both succeeded by bringing people together and creating deep, meaningful connections. Levy posits that success is deeply rooted in our ability to connect with others and build trust.

"They found a way to bring people together and create deep and meaningful connections between them." - Jon Levy

The Influence Equation

Levy introduces the Influence Equation to quantify how influence is created and amplified within communities:

"Influence = (Connection x Trust) Sense of Community" - Jon Levy

This equation highlights the importance of connection and trust in building a sense of community. Levy explains that trust is the willingness to be vulnerable, and it is built on three pillars: competence, honesty/integrity, and benevolence. These pillars are crucial in attracting people to your cause and enhancing your influence.

Trust and the IKEA Effect

Trust is essential for forming connections. Dr. Kent Grayson from the Kellogg School of Management identifies three pillars of trust:

1. Competence: The ability to do something successfully.
2. Honesty/Integrity: Being truthful and honest.
3. Benevolence: Acting with others' best interests in mind.

Levy explores the concept of the IKEA Effect, where people value things more if they have invested effort into them. This phenomenon can be used to build trust quickly by involving others in challenging activities that require collaboration and support.

"Even though IKEA’s products are not necessarily the most sturdy or long-lasting pieces of furniture, customers are fiercely devoted to the pieces they own." - Jon Levy

the IKEA Effect in action:

• Military boot camps where extreme discipline and challenges create strong bonds among members.
• Sorority or fraternity pledges who become deeply connected through shared difficult experiences.

To leverage this effect in building trust, find challenges that require people to work together and support each other, fostering quick and strong bonds.

Cultivating Connection

Connecting with influential people involves understanding their values and focusing on what they care about. Levy categorizes potential connections into four groups:

1. Global Influencers

These are mega celebrities and powerful figures in politics or royalty. Connecting with them directly is challenging, so Levy suggests the "ubiquity approach"—developing relationships with their inner circle to become part of their community over time.