New Ways of Being

You know by now that I'm a big fan of exploring the different ways to do business and translating the good ideas into a form that's suitable for an ADR practice.

I've been intrigued by the idea of social networking like Linked In and the like. How could I not be attracted to a vehicle that brings people together. Unfortunately, these sites haven't been successful for me in terms of drawing more business or even making good connections. However, they did spawn an idea.

What if a mediator could form their own business network? What if that network functioned both as an informal board of directors for each of the business owners AND also provided a comprehensive solution to the variety of issues that small business owners face? Now, that would be innovation.

Well, along with Judy Polacheck, a Boston-based attorney who specializes in employment and HR issues, I'm giving this idea a whirl. The group will be populated by business colleagues that we respect who have an interest in networking collaboratively. Once we establish this robust group of 9 professionals and really learn about the respective business models and goals--watch out small business! We will be a force to behold. Our goal is to represent a 'one stop shop' to address the different issues that small business - under 500 employee- face at a very reasonable price point.

So, if this idea appeals to you, do it in your town. Find professionals that compliment your mediation or facilitation practice and see what joining forces can do for you.

We spend so much of our time encouraging others to work together, it's high time we as practitioners did just that!

Don't forget to let me know if you hit a home run!

Ciao, Dina

PS Another reminder to opportunistic folks who spam blogs-- DON'T do it here. If your comment isn't relevant to this discussion, it will be deleted and you will be reported as a spammer.