Professional networking is important as it can open more doors to the opportunities and also act as a powerful professional development tool. There are many different ways that people can network with each other professionally. With the rise of popularity on using professional social networking websites like Linkedin, I think it's very easy for people to casually get in touch with one another. However, it's always to good to meet people in person to introduce yourself and make them remember you. There are many types of networking events these days available in various industry sectors which you can easily participate. I think small to medium sized, and focused networking events are the best ones to participate as you will get to really know people in that circle. With these types of networking event, I think it's best to make a detail oriented goal and target of what you have to achieve by going to these events. Going to these networking events without any plan nor goals would not only waste your own time, money but miss on valuable career opportunities and contacts.
I like how you mention that networking can serve as a professional development tool. Networking means we have to get out and meet new people, express ourselves and our goals. Putting myself in these situations has definitely helped me grow.
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Leo Balayon
2/8/2015 01:40:05 pm
I totally agree. In basketball, the only way to really network is to physically meet other coaches. I do believe though that following up digitally will be the next step. An email or a text message here and there or even the occasional phone call are important followup strategies to keep the network alive.
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Matt Bonenfant
2/8/2015 03:05:23 pm
It's great to read that most people still prefer face to face networking. I have always believed in quality over quantity. If I am able to make a few strong connections with face to face contact over several questionable connections through social media, I much rather take the few strong ones.
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Adedokun Olanrewaju
2/11/2015 04:34:07 pm
I enjoyed reading your post, and I totally agree with you when it comes to old fashion networking. I believe that face to face meetings are better in the long run because you leave an impression on the person you are talking to.
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Jan-Michael Thomas
Hello, My name is Jan-Michael Thomas. I am currently assistant coach at San Joaquin Delta college in Stockton, Ca.