Open vs. Closed Networkingstring(26) "Open vs. Closed Networking"

When a brand new networker goes to a mixer or other informal gathering, their first glimpse of the room may be daunting. They’ll be confronted with a room full of strangers busily involved in conversations. They’ll notice clusters of two, three, four, or more people. As a stranger, they may feel that if they try to join any of the clusters, it will be intruding. It’s an awkward moment, and they may not know quite what to do or where to start. Be aware of Open vs. Closed Networking.

The way the groups are configured can tell you a lot about how you will be received if you approach them. Notice for instance that some of the groups are “closed”, and no matter which direction you approach from, their backs are turned to you. Therefore, unless you like awkward pauses or hostile glares, don’t try to force yourself in.

Other groups are “open”, and have left an open side from which you can approach them face to face. This orientation is a welcoming configuration; it signals that their conversation is not private and that you would be welcome to join them and introduce yourself.

 

Think about these configurations, next time you attend a networking event. Are you in an “open” group that has a welcoming feel? If you notice you’re in a “closed” group, make sure to position yourself in such a way that any networker, new or experienced, feels at ease.

Transformational Leader Podcast

I was recently interviewed on this topic of “Open vs. Closed Networking” on the Transformational Leader Podcast, sponsored By Paul Martinelli and the John Maxwell Team. This show is designed to help leaders, influencers, and high achievers transform the world through positive influence. BNI has a strategic relationship with John Maxwell Team and I personally recommend their program.

I invite you to listen in to episode #13  of my interview on The Transformational Leader Podcast about “Open vs. Closed Networking”.

Leaders, the way your people are configured in groups during your events can tell your visitors a lot about how they will be received.

It’s important to train people to keep “open” groups: an open side from which visitors can approach others face-to-face. This orientation is a welcoming configuration; it signals that their conversation is not private and that visitors would be welcome to join them and introduce themselves.

The John Maxwell Team Leadership, Coaching, Speaking, and Training Development Program will take your leadership and life to the next level.  They have a great series of podcasts. I recommend you listen to their podcasts at  https://johnmaxwellteam.com/podcast/

John Maxwell interview

John Maxwell Interviews Ivan Misnerstring(35) "John Maxwell Interviews Ivan Misner"

In this video, I share with John Maxwell how I manage the “rainbow” of my day to attempt to have a “green day”.  I  also share with him my “secret to success” and my “secret to balance”. Please click on the photo below to watch the video of my personal interview with John Maxell.

John Maxwell interview

John Maxwell Interviews Ivan Misner on the “Secret to Success”

 

Ivan Misner on the “Secret to Success” from The John Maxwell Team on Vimeo.

A Humbled Manstring(13) "A Humbled Man"

I consider myself a pretty humble guy; but when you win an award, it makes you feel even more gracious and grateful for the opportunities you’ve been given in life.

Last night, I was honored to be awarded the John C. Maxwell Leadership Award. The award was given to me at the Maxwell gala, held at the end of a three day training conference, The Certified Live Event. As I reflect on the night over the next few days, I’ll be able to write a longer blog about my experience on Monday. But for now, let me say that if there’s one emotion I can immediately convey, it’s gratitude. I absolutely couldn’t have gotten where I am in life if it weren’t for others supporting, guiding and recognizing me. Being recognized as an influential leader is something I only achieved by following the lead of those who came before me, those who taught me and those who believed in me. For that, and so much more, I am truly grateful.

For me personally, the best part of the award is being able to donate the $10,000 prize money to the BNI Foundation. I have such passion, as does my wife Beth, for helping children and giving them as many opportunities to succeed as possible. This donation will make a lasting impact on children’s lives, which to me, is the greatest award imaginable.

Photo Credit: John C. Maxwell Team

Photo Credit: John C. Maxwell Team