In this episode, we’re building on work by global strategist, Sophie Krantz, rethinking how we navigate new environments, starting right from the moment we arrive. Often, we land with a fixed itinerary and a clear set of contacts, but what if the real opportunities lie beyond our familiar networks?
The traditional approach of sticking to your plan and keeping to yourself might be efficient, but it often means missing out on vital, unscripted insights. The podcast highlights how relying solely on established connections can lead to costly blindspots, especially in today’s interconnected global business landscape. True advantage now goes to those who can map the entire system, not just their small part of it.
Drawing on the concept of Serendipity Theory, we learn that leaders who cultivate curiosity, preparedness, and openness are better equipped to turn unexpected encounters into strategic breakthroughs. It’s about being actively open to “smart luck”; seeing triggers, acting on them, and allowing a casual conversation to become a source of profound insight.
So, how can you do this in practice? Instead of just following the signs, consider making the first move by striking up a conversation in the immigration queue. Or, ask better questions, like “Where do local business people meet?” rather than just “Where’s the taxi stand?” You could even activate weak ties by messaging a second-degree contact before you land. These simple actions can bridge the gap from passive information to lived insight, giving you a sharper perspective on what’s truly happening.
Ultimately, where you land is fixed, yet what you notice isn’t. The most valuable insight often isn’t in your official briefing; it’s in those unplanned interactions - the coffee queue, a question asked in transit, or a moment where you chose to lean in. By seeing the bigger picture, you play a bigger game.
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