Group Intro: Prof Network Crosspolination - What, Why, How

[Matt Elwell]

I envisioned anyone considering joining this group would have these three questions.

WHAT?
Connecting AIN to other Networks covers those formal and informal practices that leverage pre-existing professional networks (professional organizations, associations, other groups) to spread the word about AI and AIN -- so both the field of practice and our network.

Originally, I was only thinking of connecting to other training networks, but since so many of our potential clients exist outside of the training world, I think we should be looking at all possible networks. (So everything from the American Society for Training and Development to the New England Conference of Dental Hygienists... Hygienists need comedy!)

WHY?
The first question would of course be, "why bother doing that?" I have a couple reasons.

FIRST: IMMEDIATE LEGITIMACY
Here's the selfish one: If I'm talking to someone about AI training and can mention the AI professional organization I'm a part of, I position myself as an authority in my field. Not only am an AI trainer, I'm a member. ;)

SECOND: LONG-TERM LEGITIMACY
That being said, now imagine someone saying, "oh, the Applied Improvisation Network? I've heard about that!" That experience will happen more, the more we talk about AIN.

THIRD: TURN COMPETITORS INTO COLLEAGUES
A couple times I've been at a networking event and bumped into a direct competitor. AIN is the perfect thing to talk about!

HOW?
There's a variety of ways to cross-pollinate networks. Hopefully, this group will inspire discussions on various strategies. Here's a couple off the top of my head:

INFORMAL DISCUSSION: Talk about AIN at networking events.

SCAN MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORIES: Members of professional networks often have access to a membership directory. Why not scan for people who might be a fit for AIN and invite them through the website.

VOLUNTEER! Prof orgs love volunteers. Maybe you could present a workshop on behalf of your own company, but talk about AIN. I'm sure most of us bring a "leave your e-mail for more info" clipboard to such workshops. You could always add a checkbox for "also send me info on the Applied Improvisation Network."

SO...
Hopefully, these remarks frame the conversation. Now I hope to hear more from all of you!