How to Talk to Strangers

Many of us are blind to the exciting sources of innovation that are in our midst every single day - strangers. Instead we often rely on trusted sources of close friends and contacts - people who think like we do. We are even taught to avoid strangers. Remember "Stranger Danger"?

Alan Gregerman, author of The Necessity of Strangers, believes that it is not only important but absolutely necessary to engage strangers in our innovation challenges. Success, whether it is personal, professional or organizational, is all about seeing things in new ways. When we combine what we know best with the ideas and expertise of others - especially if they are different from us - we are far more likely to create meaningful innovation. Finding the right strangers in all walks of life will help us create value for ourselves and our organizations.

In this workshop, you will learn how to develop a more stranger-centric mindset. We will gather at Maga Design Inc. for a brief orientation before we set loose on Adams Morgan to talk to strangers. Karen Hold, Director - DT:DC, will lead you through a series of guided audio expeditions (based on the Ted Talk of Kio Stark) that become increasingly more challenging. We won't give away the expeditions ahead of time but by the end of the evening, we hope that you will venture into new territory and conquer some fears of approaching strangers.

This is a different kind of workshop because you will spend most of your time outside - yes - outside. That means you will need to bundle up and wear comfortable walking shoes. You will spend about 75 minutes outside, so dress accordingly. Be sure to bring a mobile phone and earphones to access the audio expeditions. We will get cozy and warm back at Maga at the end of evening with hot chocolate and coffee (cookies too) while sharing stories about our experiences. Hope you can join us!

Agenda
6:30-6:45 Networking
6:45-7:05 Orientation + Workshop Overview
7:05-8:20 Expeditions in Adams Morgan
8:20-8:45 Debrief
8:45 End of Workshop