7 x C

ConnectMinds’ 7 Guiding principles

The real value of the ConnectMinds network lies in the contributions of every member. In order for this to work, we follow these simple guiding principles:

1

Composition

is crucial.

The way we compose our groups:

A key objective is to improve not only your own contribution to the project, but the cohesion of the entire project team. Therefore, we don’t focus on one specific role or job function; nor on improving one particular skillset.

Most professional networks or courses revolve around a role; a profession; say communicators or marketeers - and on strengthening their capabilities and showing them the newest trends or skills. Our shared focus is the deliverable the respective members are contributing to.

Examples could be the organisation’s digital employee experience; the organisation’s digital customer journey or the organisation’s framework for analytics and insights. These are vast and complex deliverables and require the contributions and expertise of several stakeholders from numerous departments.

Complications, disruption and delays are rarely caused by problems inside the specialised teams. Communicators collaborate well and follow the same routines and conventions, ditto in IT and HR. Complications arise every time you have to interact and collaborate with the others; when things “fall between chairs”; when there are misunderstandings between key stakeholder leading to e.g. unclear ownership and accountability. Our groups bring together representatives from the various stakeholder groups in a “safe space” where shared challenges and common problems can be identified, addressed, explored and discussed. This holistic approach allows us to devise better methods and solutions in collaboration.

2

Contribution

Everyone shares and responds.

You join a network of experts and your experience is valuable. We learn and grow through sharing and discussing the knowledge and experience of every member. You are expected to share your insights and provide feedback at the in-person sessions and to participate actively in group discussions on- and offline throughout the year.

3

Confidence

It takes trust. Building trust takes time.

This carefully curated, constantly evolving network is a living, moving organism. What makes it special is the level of trust between the members; something that is only achievable over time - and when achieved becomes a powerful enabler.

We have taken the time to achieve it; the network has been built up, tuned and adjusted over more than a decade and we continue to guard the ground rules that make it work; listening to the needs of each member, mutual respect and confidentiality when requested. 

4

Confidentiality

We share in the group, but never outside.

ConnectMinds members join the network to learn and grow; to be more successful in their careers. We do this through sharing our challenges, concerns and considerations; the things we are trying to solve. More detail and perspective equals better input and feedback, but daring to share the difficult things can be daunting. In order to achieve the right levels of openness, intimacy and trust, we follow the Chatham House rule. We don’t sign NDAs or confidentiality agreements, but expect you to respect this simple, yet critical rule.

5

Consideration

We respect each other’s time.

Time is the most precious resource of ConnectMinds peers. Taking out time to prepare and participate in the network activities is an investment for everyone involved.

Being late, leaving early and responding to non-essential calls, messages and emails during sessions are all disruptive and impact the experience and outcome of everyone. We are all busy, but also reasonable. We understand the occasional need to react to unforeseen events. We merely ask you to be considerate. That way we waste less time, disrupt fewer discussions and ensure a richer, more valuable outcome.

6

Commitment

Your presence matters.

A ConnectMinds group grows stronger and more valuable over time. Getting to know your fellow members and their respective realities more intimately allows the group to “raise the bar” at every meeting. That means we minimise repetition, move beyond the basics and evolve more rapidly. This is only possible if your chair is not empty at the meetings. Naturally, we regularly welcome new members into the group and take the time to introduce them properly and bring them up to speed.

7

Celebration

We share our successes, too!

Celebrating your successes is as important as sharing and working through the challenges. We want to hear about your progress and victories - and we can’t think of a better crowd to share them with than peers who have followed your journey and understand the achievements; who can add perspective and help you maximise the return on your efforts.