Three Ls key to networking success

If you have ever wondered about the real benefits of networks and how to make sure they work effectively, then a series of seminars taking place at Southern Cross University’s Lismore and Coffs Harbour campuses this week may be for you.

Myrna Mandell, Visiting Fellow at Southern Cross University and Emeritus Professor, California State University, will be sharing insights from her research on networks conducted in conjunction with academics at Queensland University of Technology and explaining how the three Ls of learning, language, and leadership in networks are the keys to success.

“Networks are having a profound effect on the way that society is organised at the local, national and international level,” said Professor Mandell.

“A defining feature of a successful network is the quality of the interactions between members and the three Ls of learning, language and leadership are important indicators of this quality.

“Networks are the sites of major, complex learning which takes place through social interaction. Different networks allow for different types of learning and the key is knowing what fits best and communicating this to all members.

“Language is a complex instrument used to communicate the shared information and direction needed for a good network to function, and it is critical in establishing social identity, status and power positions in groups.

“Finally, the synergy created through people connected with each other through networks must be leveraged. This can only be done with the type of leadership that is able to build relationships and identify and capitalise on the opportunities that arise from the pooling of resources.”

The seminar is being facilitated by Southern Cross University’s Centre for Tourism, Leisure and Work and the Regional Futures Institute and has already been well received at the University’s Riverside campus in Tweed Heads. It is being held at the Lismore campus on Tuesday, November 3 and at the Coffs Harbour campus on Thursday, November 5.

Attendees to the seminars will be provided with detailed information on the features of the three Ls and receive an insight into the successful networks of the future.

Professor Kerry Brown, director of the Centre for Tourism, Leisure and Work and Mulpha Chair in Tourism Asset Management for Southern Cross University’s School of Tourism and Hospitality Management, said she was pleased to welcome Professor Myrna Mandell to present the seminars.

“Professor Mandell is a world expert on networks and collaboration,” said Professor Brown.

“Southern Cross University and the wider community can benefit greatly from her insights into how to understand what is needed to develop network leadership qualities and improve the way networks operate.

“We look forward to working with her on ongoing research into networks as part of her Visiting Fellow appointment.”

‘Learning, Language and Leadership as Conduits to Dynamic Networks’ will take place at the Lismore campus on Tuesday, November 3 in R2.04 from 12pm-2pm and at Coffs Harbour on Thursday, November 5 in MLG13 from 12pm-2pm. Light refreshments will be provided.

To attend the seminars contact Kim McDowell on 02 6620 3849 or kim.mcdowell@scu.edu.au

Photo: Myrna Mandell, Visiting Fellow at Southern Cross University and Emeritus Professor, California State University, will be sharing insights from her research on networks at the Lismore and Coffs Harbour campuses this week.