5 Unexpected Ways to Spark Collaboration
We often picture collaboration as a grand finale, a dazzling event or project born from combined efforts. We picture ourselves crossing a finish line together, arms raised in triumphant success. But what if collaboration wasn’t just about reaching a destination? What if it was more like a journey, a winding path paved with mutual support, shared passion, and unexpected connections? Sure, co-hosting a workshop or launching a joint initiative are fantastic ways to team up. But let’s not overlook the subtle, ongoing collaborations that simmer beneath the surface, weaving a web of connection and mutual growth.
I have been hiking a lot lately (Three Sisters Falls Trail, most recently). Think of collaboration like a hike, not a sprint. You might invite a fellow adventurer to join you on a scenic trail, not to just conquer a summit or arrive at the waterfall. The shared laughter as you navigate a muddy patch, the awe-inspiring rock you both stumble on – these moments, these shared experiences, become the foundation of a deeper connection.
Today, let’s ditch the conventional and explore five unconventional ways to foster collaboration:
1. Guest-Star Power: Invite talented individuals to events you’re attending, introduce them to your network, and watch sparks fly. You’ll be surprised at the doors you open and the bridges you build. Know someone hosting a webinar or speaking at a conference? Suggest them as a guest for your own event (online or in-person). This showcases their expertise while exposing them to your network – a win-win for everyone.
Ex: I invited a colleague of mine to join me as my guest at the Young Echelon 3rd Annual Holiday Luncheon. He ended up being the bright spot that I needed that day!
Ex: After speaking the keynote address at the Neighborhood House Association Conference, I was recommended to present the keynote address at the R9 Head Start Association Early Childhood STEM Institute.
2. Champion Others’ Journeys: Spot a brilliant business website or job posting from someone in your network? Share it! Tag them on social media or send a quick note highlighting what impressed you. This act of appreciation creates a subtle connection and demonstrates your awareness of their work.
Ex: A few local non-profit organizations have sent us positions they are hiring for, and we posted it and sent it to a few specific people that may be a good fit.
Ex: A contact of mine slid in my LinkedIn DMs with a link to a job posting that she saw.
3. Bridge the Gap: Need to connect with someone specific but lack a direct link? Look for a mutual acquaintance who knows both of you, and ask for a warm introduction mentioning your shared interests. Also, facilitate introductions for others, whether it’s a potential mentor and a mentee, or two businesses looking to collaborate. This personalized approach adds context and increases the likelihood of a fruitful connection.
Ex: I ran into a former coworker who introduced me to the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce Business Alliance Groups.
Ex: I have introduced a few people to my Dean Jamie M. Hess and my alma mater, Fermanian Business School for their MBA, and continue to be an Ambassador for Point Loma Nazarene University.
4. Casual Encounters: Invite interesting people from your network to a casual happy hour meet-up, co-working space session, or even a virtual happy hour. This informal setting breaks down professional barriers, fosters new connections, and might just spark unexpected collaborations.
Ex: Two wonderful friends representing Hands On Technology Education and UC San Diego Extended Studies joined me at my birthday happy hour and ended up putting on the San Diego STEAM Educators Conference this year.
Ex: When I need a boost of productivity, I spend the day co-working at Hera Hub, and usually invite a friend to work along with me.
5. The Positivity Posse: Forget gossip, spread positive rumors! Sometimes, the simplest gestures have the biggest impact. Leave a glowing review for someone who deserves it, spread the word about their amazing work, or simply whisper their name in the right ear. This creates a ripple effect of good vibes, building trust and strengthening your professional bonds. Those who trust you will also trust your good recommendation of others.
Ex: My dissertation research participants have been amazing, and I continue to sing their praises for their contributions they have made to the field of STEM Education. I had met and had positive interactions with all of my participants prior to them participating, and want to share free resources with them from #theSTEAMcollabs.
Ex: As an Advisor for the Innovation Collaborative National Science Foundation (NSF) Advancing Informal STEM Learning (AISL) Grant #2314092, I have been asked to recommend virtual and polled participants for our STEAM ISL Working Conference Project held at Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas.
So, let’s embrace the journey of collaboration. Remember, genuine connection and a dash of creativity are the secret ingredients to building a thriving network of amazing collaborations. It’s about building relationships, amplifying each other’s voices, and creating opportunities for shared growth. The most impactful collaborations are not always the ones that end with a bang, but they are sometimes the ones that whisper their way into existence through one kind word, one shared laugh, or one unexpected connection at a time.
Ready to put these ideas into action? Share your own unconventional collaboration stories in the comments below!
