Naturally we all want big networks of friends, colleagues, and associates. But looking well connected is one thing. Being well connected is another.
30,000 friends/followers/connections on your social network of choice may give you reach when you want to shout a message and mass market. It's a nice collection, but I'd wager roughly 1-2% are real connections. Those numbers might even be generous. The other 98-99% are really just an audience.
If you want an audience, scale by any means necessary. If you want a network you can count on, and can count on you, connect with each of them personally and regularly. In other words, collect an audience for your ambitions. Connect with people to build community and support each other's ambitions.
