Playing In Traffic

by Winslow Swart

Strategic Coffee, The Field Office, and a few other Networking Hacks.

In the fast-paced world of business, conventional routes of networking and development are often overly beaten paths. Some entrepreneurs and professionals are finding success by venturing into non-traditional territory. In this article, we explore the concept of “playing in traffic” as a metaphor for unconventional business networking and development activities that can lead to innovative opportunities and unexpected success.

I got to spend a few minutes with Adam Sandler while writing this article at the “Field Office”

Strategic Coffee and The Field Office.

Without giving all my secrets away, I can tell you I get as much new and returning business traction while on the field office as I do from the actual office. On the field office? Seems like a typo. It’s not, The field office, in this case, is one of two carbon fiber bikes outfitted with mobile computing devices for business communications, zoom calls and general connectivity. With my mobile devices, a short stack of business cards and a few strategically mapped out coffee venues, I’m ready to book meetings and co-work anywhere there’s a chill vibe and some good Java.

“Strategic Coffee” in the field office with author/entrepreneur Lorenzo Gomez

I find that booking meetings in strategic locations, not the conventional office, can organically lead to a domino effect of additional informal meetups and lead to additional bookings as well. Frequently, by chance, I get a little face time with business contacts whose calendars are several months booked (and whose gatekeepers might not forward a meeting request). From these informal meetups, it’s usually a short chat that leads to a longer, scheduled meeting that can be arranged on the spot.

I’m not saying, “don’t stick to tried a proven methods” I am saying, “mix it up a bit” as the following ideas suggest:

The Intersection of Traditional and Innovative Networking.

Playing in traffic involves navigating the intersection, where creativity collides with opportunity. Traditional networking events and industry conferences may provide a structured environment, but the real magic often happens at the crossroads of diverse communities and perspectives. Entrepreneurs who explore unconventional avenues discover new ways of thinking, sparking innovative solutions and collaborations.

The author with tech eco-system thought leaders Dr. Luis Martinez, Mayor Ron Nirenberg, and David Heard at TechPortSA.

Community Engagement Events.

Attend events outside your industry, such as local community gatherings, cultural festivals, or volunteer initiatives. These diverse settings expose you to people with a wide range of skills, backgrounds, and perspectives. Engaging with the community not only strengthens your network but also enhances your understanding of different market segments.

Co-working Spaces and Startup Ecosystems.

It’s so important to get out of the corporate fortress or the home office. Seeing the same people everyday or the isolation of remote work calls for some disruption.

Co-working spaces provide a porous environment where ideas are easily exchanged, and new friendships can be forged. Informal mentoring and collaboration are fertile grounds for discovering new ways to solve old problems, build-out a team, discover new markets or sources of capital. I have found that the tech-startup world is the best place to discover emerging trends and talent.

Co-working spaces that host accelerators/incubators like Geekdom area a great source of innovation, talent, and occasionally startup capital. Pictured: the author, Charles Woodin, Nick Longo.

Interactive Workshops and Masterclasses.

Move beyond traditional seminars and explore hands-on workshops or masterclasses. These interactive sessions foster deeper connections with participants who share a passion for continuous learning. Collaborating on practical projects can lead to the development of unique skill sets and the exchange of valuable insights.

Online Gaming Communities.

In the digital age, online gaming communities have become hubs for connection and collaboration. Joining a gaming network can introduce you to professionals from diverse industries, fostering relationships in a relaxed and informal setting. Gamers often bring a mix of skills, creativity, and strategic thinking that can translate well into the business world.

Innovative Retreats and Conferences.

Seek out retreats or conferences that prioritize unconventional formats. These events may incorporate activities like team-building exercises, nature excursions, or artistic collaborations. By breaking away from the typical conference structure, participants can form deeper connections and explore unconventional approaches to problem-solving.

Collaborative Art and Music Projects.

Art and music have the power to transcend traditional boundaries. Participating in collaborative projects, whether it’s creating a mural, composing music, or organizing a cultural event, can connect you with a diverse group of individuals. The shared experience of creating something meaningful fosters a unique bond that extends beyond the project itself.

Afterthought.

Playing in traffic may sound risky, but it represents a strategic shift from the well-worn paths of conventional networking. By immersing yourself in non-traditional activities, you open yourself up to a world of possibilities and fresh perspectives. The intersection of ideas, where creativity meets opportunity, is where innovation thrives. Embracing these unconventional avenues for networking and development can lead to unexpected synergies, helping you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of business with confidence and creativity.

The author with Irys co-founder Beto Altamirano on the social impact trail in Washington D.C.

In the "field office" with serial tech entrepreneur Bret Piatt

“Field Office” meeting with San Antonio City Councilmember Dr. Adriana Rocha-Garcia