Pioneering a Future of Work that is Built on Human Connection, Trust and Collaborative Freedom
The workplace is undergoing the greatest transformation in over a century, and it’s just beginning. In the next decade, artificial intelligence won’t simply change what we do. It will redefine how we work, who we work with, and what we need to thrive.
Automation is replacing repetitive tasks. Augmentation is enhancing human potential. Acceleration is collapsing timelines, demanding faster, more strategic decisions. But amidst this seismic shift, a surprising truth is emerging: The most valuable asset in the AI era isn’t just intelligence, it’s connection.
We are entering a Network-First world where authentic relationships and the social capital they generate will determine who thrives. Where the ability to build trust, broker insight, and influence across teams is more valuable than ever. AI can analyze data, but it can’t build relationships. It can automate action, but it can’t generate buy-in. The machines will move faster, but only humans can authentically move hearts.
This is our moment to lead, not by resisting AI, but by re-centering what it means to be human in an increasingly machine-optimized world. To be connected.
Welcome to the Network-First Future of Work.
Together, we commit to the following principles:
1. Social Beings at Our Core
We are wired to connect. Social connection isn’t optional; it’s fundamental to being human. Our brains are wired for relationships. From our evolutionary roots to modern neuroscience, the message is the same: we flourish through connection. Whether deep bonds, casual ties, or collective collaboration, our networks shape how we live, learn, and lead. Being social isn’t just something we do. It’s who we are.
2. Social Capital and Network Literacy
We believe social capital is the new differentiator, and everyone should have the power to build and activate it. In a world where AI can replicate skills and knowledge, what sets individuals apart is their network, the strength, diversity, and credibility of their relationships. We champion tools, education, practices, and ethical guidelines that make network thinking accessible to all. This empowers people to connect with purpose, collaborate smarter, and accelerate their impact.
3. Open and Closed Networks
We value both open and closed networks. Open networks connect us with diverse people and ideas. They spark discovery, innovation, and adaptability, helping us find new solutions to unfamiliar problems. Closed networks bring together people who know and trust each other. They enable alignment, focus, and effective execution. It’s not either/or. It’s knowing when to explore and when to refine.
4. Speed and Stability Balance
We believe that in today’s fast-moving world, speed ignites innovation, but stability sustains it. Small, agile teams spark breakthroughs by moving quickly and experimenting boldly. Larger, stable teams turn those sparks into fire, integrating, scaling, and safeguarding what works. But here’s the catch: go too fast and you break things. Move too slow and you miss the moment. A network-first mindset doesn’t pick a side. It masters a balance.
5. Dynamic Nature of Networks
We believe that in a fast-paced, AI-driven world, social fluidity will set people apart. The most successful professionals don’t just develop their networks. They move through them with precision. They integrate quickly into new groups, step out of stagnant circles, reach beyond familiar peers, and connect to mentors and sponsors. Social movement turns adaptability into advantage, making the right connections at the right time to accelerate growth.
6. Formal and Informal Networks
We believe that understanding both formal and informal networks is essential to success. Formal hierarchy provides structure, clarity, and accountability. It ensures alignment and coordinated action. Informal networks, though often invisible, are built on trust and personal relationships. They influence how daily decisions are made, how ideas spread, and how work truly gets done. Both play a vital role in enabling communication, coordination, and impact.
7. Manage Collaborative Demand
We believe that managing collaborative demand is critical to sustained success because connection should empower performance, not exhaust it. When collaboration is unchecked, it turns from catalyst to constraint. Time gets fragmented, focus disappears, and people burn out under the weight of endless meetings, messages, and disruptions. In today’s demanding world, proactively managing collaboration demand isn’t optional; it’s essential.
8. Collaborative Freedom
We believe people do their best work when they’re connected to purpose, surrounded by those who inspire them, and empowered to contribute from anywhere, at any time. In a world defined by change, we design systems that help people feel seen, connected, and part of something greater. The result is collaboration that is intentional, authentic and creative. That is, human.
We invite leaders, practitioners, designers, technologists, educators, and changemakers from all sectors to join us.
Together, let’s build a Network-First Future of Work, one defined by human connection, trust, and collaborative freedom.
Network-First Manifesto 