Networking is a Puzzle, No Matter Where You Are in The World.

Relocating home to #Winnipeg, Canada introduced me to a universal truth: networking is a puzzle, no matter where you are in the world.

8 years ago, I found a way to make connecting with people more than just exchanging business cards; it's about creating memorable experiences.

At Tech Thursday, I've been teaching attendees a game that turns networking into an adventure.The world is slowly inching back to the pre-pandemic norm, and with it, the buzz of live events is returning. The emphasis -- personal connections.

This game was invented at an event that was starkly different from the others—no coffee, no cocktails, just water (yikes!). Despite this, I realised each attendee was a potential story waiting to unfold.This realisation led me to reimagine networking through a game, utilising LinkedIn not just as a job-hunting platform but as a means to connect and engage on a deeper level.

The game is simple: guess how many mutual connections you share with someone. If you're wrong, you owe them a coffee (or a meal, depending on your wager). But it's the conversation that follows which truly matters.

Playing this game at Tech Thursdays in Winnipeg has been an enlightening experience. It's not only helped me meet people but also fostered unexpected connections.Just last night, I met Stefan Korban who, astonishingly, was connected to my dad! This twist of fate wouldn't have been discovered without this game, proving the world is indeed small, especially in my hometown.

The game not only breaks the ice but also ignites conversations that might never have occurred otherwise. It's these stories and connections that enrich our professional networks and personal lives.To those new to a country or looking to expand their professional circle, I say: think outside the box. Traditional networking events are invaluable, but adding a personal touch or a unique twist can turn a simple exchange into a lasting connection.As we look to the future of human connection, networking will continue to evolve and I'm hoping to see more gamification to spice it up. Playing the LinkedIn game, from Winnipeg to back home in Stockholm, has shown me how creative networking can be a blast!

So, to my fellow connection enthusiasts, I encourage you to try this game or invent your own method of making connections. Networking doesn't have to be a chore; with a little creativity, it can be the highlight of your professional journey.

And who knows?You might just end up discovering an unexpected connection to your past, just like I did.

Happy Connecting!

Shaena, your Professional Wing Woman

#professionalwingwoman #humanconnection #makingnetworkingnotboring