The Importance Of In-Person Networking

Posted on May 2, 2007
Filed Under Personal Development, Public Appearances & Conduct |

You can instantly tell where the generational divide occurs:Say the word “networking” to someone 30 or older, and they are likely to think in terms of establishing personal business relationships by attending events,dinners,functions,conventions etc.

Say the same word to someone under 30 and you are liable to get a response that talks about Web based networking sites, such as MySpace used mostly by high school and college students.

There is no doubt that in terms of the cost effective use of one’s time, Web based networking sites offer the advantage of potentially reaching large numbers of people in a short amount of time and in an inexpensive way.

But,that does not mean that one should forget about how important in-person networking really is to establish ties that bind, as they say.

Nothing beats being able to shake someone’s hand, look him or her in the eye and make an evaluaiton about whether there is likely to be a mutually benefical business or even political relationship in the future.

While those running for president from both major parties like to talk about raising money on the Internet, the fact is that every single one of them has poured time, money and staff talent into arranging in-person events where people can press the flesh of the candidate.

You don’t have to be running for president to take advantage of in-person networking opportunities.

For example, just about every county or city or town in American has a chamber of commerce and all are open to new membership. As a chamber member, you will have a golden opportunity to meet other chamber memebers at sponsered breakfasts and other events that are the norm for such associations nationwide. Take advantage of this.

You may also wish to join groups that are sub-divisions of what you do–for example, a women’s group in the field you work in. Or, perhaps, an association of veterans who happen to work in your chosen field. These groups automatically give you a common link and provide an initial reason to begin a discussion once you meet someone new.

The Japanese learned long ago the value of the business card. In fact, among Japanese businessmen (and increasingly,women)the exchange of business cards is the very first thing one does when meeting a new business or political contact. Something about being able to pocket someone’s business card and save it for when it is needed that beats the coldness of Internet based networking sites.

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