Monday night I attended an event titled “TenThousandCoffees Presentation and Networking Session” hosted by Huntington University. David Wilkin shared the story behind his business, reasons for networking and invited us to meet people who are different from us for a coffee on a regular basis. Although it may seem awkward at first, talking to new and different people fosters ideas, promotes learning and innovation.
After the keynote address, I talked to several people, two of whom I plan to follow up with for a second coffee (I actually drink tea). It is amazing what common interests you can find with people from all walks of life. We are all learners and teachers. Finding mentors and colleagues to network with is a critical component of professional development. Once a month (or more) I would like to meet with a stranger or someone I don’t know well to expand my network. If I am the successful candidate for the innovation position at Cambrian I would like to build this strategy into my role.
Would you like to have coffee with me? It can be in-person or virtual – and you don’t need to drink coffee if you don’t want to!
Session information: https://www.huntingtonu.ca/events/tenthousandcoffees-com-presentation-and-networking-session
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