Sophisticated networking tools keep it “intimate”

This weekend, IMD, the International Institute for Management Development in Lausanne, Switzerland, started its largest program ever. OWP, the Orchestrating Winning Performance program, welcomes 550 participants from 359 companies based in 57 countries, representing 59 different industries. This is a large number for a school that has been called a “boutique in executive education” and “intimate pressure cooker” by the Wall Street Journal, among others. Far smaller than most business schools, IMD offers executive education on a scale that allows participants to really get to know both each other and the school’s professors. At its largest program ever, how does IMD ensure its renowned intimate learning ambience? Jan Kubes, strategy professor and OWP program director responds:

"OWP is all about the right balance between learning and networking. Participants go to class with those who share their interest in a topic. During and in between sessions we do everything possible to make sure that they can network and exchange new insights on a one-to-one basis. We use technology, table and auditoria settings, and special networking sessions to support them. Additionally the size of our campus is small enough to easily find anyone you might be looking for."

Upon arrival, participants receive a device (called “SpotMe”) that helps them find the people they are interested in. All participants’ business cards and photos are stored in this small cell-phone-like box they can clip on their belts or bags. It sorts participants per country, per function or industry and optionally gives a discrete signal whenever any “wanted” person is within a ten meter radius. Alternatively it will send out an invitation to connect.

Soon after registration, participants go into their own separate morning sessions on topics like “Balancing family and professional life in a changing world,” “Dealing effectively with emerging Asia,” “Making strategy work - engaging minds and hearts” and five other options. After some serious learning, participants gather for lunch. Assisted by their SpotMe device, they network with other participants and faculty or just hang out and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

In the afternoons, participants choose from eight sessions including one directly linked to the all-important networking element of the program: “Expanding my network for new ideas” led by Dr. Janet Shaner, she explains:

"We help participants understand that different types of networks are more or less effective depending on the situation you and your company are in. Participants learn about networking strategies and tactics and we will help them put these in practice immediately to maximize their benefit from OWP."

In the evenings, participants come together again for presentations on world competitiveness and on personal experiences of top executives like Mr. Curtis Nelson, President and COO of Carlson Companies and Dr. Klaus Zumwinkel, Chairman of the management board of Deutsche Post AG.

Back at work, participants will find an IMD email with all the business cards they have exchanged during the OWP program. With 550 peers to choose from, numerous new business ideas to share, and all the networking skills acquired over the last six days, this list will no doubt be as long as it should be!

Alessandro Sofia
IMD Media Relations
Tel: +41(0) 21 618 0636
Contact Alessandro Sofia