"Schmoozing" Tips for New Ombuds

Success as an ombuds depend on the ability to talk to others within the organization about critical issues. However, it can be daunting to make these connections before the need arises, especially if you're new to ombudsing or an organization. Guy Kawasaki has some great tips on how to start conversations and build relationships. My favorite: "Get out. Schmoozing is an analog, contact sport. You can't do it alone from your office on the phone or via a computer." (How to Change the World; see also prior Ombuds Blog post on Acquiring Organizational Culture.)