Yesterday I wrote about the initials that people put after their name. It made me think about who chooses to attend certification classes: people with a personal stake in advancing themselves through the certification. If we apply the Pareto Principle: 80% of these people will be selfishly trying to use it and 20% are taking it for personal improvement. Based on personal experience this seems about right.
Self-selected groups are a common situation but often surprising phenomenon for those not looking for it. The early adopters are often those excited about a new prospect and honestly trying to make it better. After a critical peak you start to see people signing up because they see advantages from simply being part of the group. After a bit longer you have a majority of people simply seeking to be part of the team. Go long enough and you will have a large majority who are happy with the status quo and don’t want improvement or change. They are invested in keeping things the way they are – good and bad.
For those looking to start groups or to join one it’s something to think about.