Networking in the Outdoors

Who said networking needs to be done over coffee? Throughout my life, the opportunities for the most genuine connections have come in the outdoors – removed from cell service, city lights, and other distractions.

I am naturally an introvert, but anyone that hikes with me would probably never make that assumption. As I let my feet handle the busy task of avoiding roots and rocks on the trail, my mind finds the freedom to enjoy conversation.

Today, I found the time to get to know a fellow Foster MBA student on McClellan Butte. Brandon works at Mountain Safety Research during the day, while taking MBA classes during the evening. Our topics of conversation included leadership and management styles, MBA program expectations, the Outdoor and Sports Industry Club, small business ideas, and ways to bring the Foster MBA program closer to the outdoor industry.

If the situation allows, I will always seek shared experiences in the outdoors when getting to know someone. I hope you can find time to trade in the coffee shop for a trailhead.

See you out there on the trails! – Michael