The Power of Open-Minded Networking: Finding Opportunity in Unexpected Connections

By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | April 22, 2025

Networking is often seen as a strategic way to build professional relationships, but the most valuable opportunities often come from the least expected places. Staying open-minded in networking—engaging with a diverse range of people, industries, and perspectives—can lead to insights, partnerships, and opportunities that may never have been on your radar. When you expand your network beyond your immediate circle and industry, you unlock new possibilities that can shape your career and business in ways you never anticipated.

One of the biggest mistakes professionals make in networking is focusing only on people they believe can directly benefit them. While it’s natural to seek out industry peers, potential clients, or influential connections, limiting yourself to only these interactions can mean missing out on valuable relationships. Some of the most successful collaborations come from unexpected connections—a casual conversation with someone in a different industry, a chance meeting at a community event, or an introduction from a mutual contact that leads to a game-changing opportunity. The more open you are to engaging with a variety of people, the greater the chance of discovering something new and valuable.

Engaging with people outside of your immediate professional circle also broadens your perspective. Different industries face different challenges, approach problem-solving in unique ways, and offer insights that can be applied across fields. For example, a software developer might gain innovative marketing strategies from a conversation with a real estate professional, or a business consultant might learn about emerging technology trends from a startup founder. These cross-industry exchanges spark creativity and open doors to collaborations that wouldn’t have happened in a more limited networking approach.

Being open-minded in networking also means avoiding snap judgments. Just because someone’s role or business doesn’t seem relevant to yours at first glance doesn’t mean they don’t have something valuable to offer. They might know someone in their network who is a perfect fit for your needs, or they could provide a fresh perspective that challenges you to think differently about a problem. Every person you meet has a unique set of experiences, skills, and connections that could lead to unexpected opportunities. The key is to approach every interaction with curiosity and a willingness to explore where the conversation might lead.

To truly embrace open-minded networking, go beyond the typical networking events in your industry. Attend diverse business meetups, join community initiatives, participate in cross-industry panels, or engage with online groups that discuss broader topics. The more you expose yourself to different perspectives and industries, the more you expand your opportunities for growth. Some of the best connections happen when you least expect them—over a casual chat at a coffee shop, during a volunteer event, or even in an online discussion thread.

At its core, networking is about building relationships, not just making transactions. By staying open-minded and engaging with a variety of people, you create a network that is rich in diverse experiences, ideas, and opportunities. The next time you attend an event or meet someone new, resist the urge to focus only on what’s immediately relevant to you. Instead, embrace the conversation, explore different perspectives, and remain open to where the connection might lead. You never know when an unexpected introduction could turn into a life-changing opportunity.

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.

She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jholly-hansen@wbnn.news. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

TAGS:  #Jenny Holly Hansen #Networking #Open-minded #Professional Circle #Cross Industry Exchanges #Collaboration and Partnerships