Why You Should Be Networking Avoiding office cocktail parties and golf outings with the boss? Think again.

 Why You Should Be Networking?

Why You Should Be Networking

Avoiding office cocktail parties and golf outings with the boss? Think again.

You see my name here? Remember it. That way, when I instant-message you after I find your contact information on Linkedin.com—we’re both into Cabernet Franc! We both ski in Aspen! We’re both Sagittarians!—you will know who I am. You will tell me about an upcoming party or industry function, and I will attend. After our awkward meeting, we will stay in touch, occasionally e-mailing each other humorous websites and updating each other about what we’re doing. Eventually, maybe weeks or years from now, one of us will have something to offer the other: an apartment, a summer house, a job. And it would never have happened if we hadn’t had the good sense, as John A. Challenger of the placement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc., puts it, “to devote energy all the time, 365 days a year, to meeting people in your field.”

Forget devoting energy to proving yourself at a new job—that’s a sucker’s game for aging professionals who don’t understand that their time is much better spent updating their MySpace profiles and sending out mass e-mails with fresh contact info and invitations to join them at a lounge to celebrate.

“As an outplacement consultant, I see a lot of people who have lost their jobs because they haven’t networked,” Challenger says. “And the ones who find the best jobs are really wired. They’re a lot more successful than the people who have been more introverted.”

The people who grew up teething on cell-phone handsets—the ones who are probably right now cheerfully chatting up the CEO of your company—are the best networkers in the history of the workplace. For those born in the eighties, the road to success is paved with e-mail, text messages, instant messages, file-sharing, and social-networking websites. But does that mean those of us with a quaint notion of staying connected—calling old friends once in a while or e-mailing a baby photo—are career road kill under the wheels of a generation that can’t have a drink in a bar without texting a half-dozen friends to tell them where they are?

Networking isn’t anything new. In the preindustrial era, well-heeled travelers to foreign lands carried satchels of introductory letters from mutual acquaintances to those of similar status in their host country. Your dad went on golf outings with the boss. But prior to the arrival of Generation Y, there was at least the pretense that there was more to all this interaction than just networking for networking’s sake. It now seems networking has drifted from being at least partly about socializing and shooting the shit with like-minded people to being solely about networking itself.

What this means is that the purpose of building up your web of friends, acquaintances, colleagues, and fellow lovers of White Snake has become . . . to have the biggest network.

“With the current boom of social networks, online communication, mobile networks—networking is changing,” says Jason Kovac, an executive at the human-resources consulting firm World at Work. “In fact, you could potentially have individuals in your professional or personal network that you have never met in person, or even spoken to.”

Read Full Post »

“Why You Should Be Networking” – Business AND Pleasure?

Steven Burda, MBA

Senior Financial Analyst at SunGard Data Systems – Financial Systems, Open Networker

see all my questions

“Why You Should Be Networking” – Business AND Pleasure?

“Why You Should Be Networking” – Business and Pleasure?

Today at lunch, I read a great article called “Why You Should Be Networking” by Karl Taro Greenfeld, and immediately thought of influentially emerging networking sites like Linkedin and Facebook – and my own networking that I carry out nearly every day. I strongly agree about many aspects of what was mentioned about the networking (in person, in groups, virtually, etc) — however, I heard many people (even in business-related fields!) reject the idea of networking, for whatever their reason may be. Question: Why so? Have you passed on a networking opportunity? What good and bad came out of it? Aren’t you a big believer of the saying, “when opportunity knocks, answer the door?”

Direct link to article:
http://men.style.com/details/features/full?id=content_5871

– Steven Burda, Networker, Opportunist
burda.mba @gmail.com

Clarification added 4 months ago:

Hello… so why network, even with people you previously didn’t know? Here is a prime example from the e-mail I received yesterday. It made me feel good…

———- Forwarded message ———-
From: Rick Nidel <private@comcast.net>
Date: Sep 9, 2007 11:34 AM
Subject: Thanks
To: burda.mba{at}gmail.com

Hello Mr. Burda,

I am not even sure how we got connected on Linked-In. I used to work at LMIT, so perhaps from there. Anyway, your connection resulted in me receiving a job posting that is so closely matched to what I want to do, I simply could not believe it. This doesn’t mean I will get the job, but I’m still impressed with how the Linked-In thing can work. Whoever you are….thanks for being part of my network.

Best regards,
Rick Nidel

if (window.addEventListener || window.attachEvent) { var shareMenu = new popMenu(‘share-link’,’share-menu’); shareMenu.init(); }

Answers (210)

Shawn Carter

Senior Financial Analyst at Blackhawk Network

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Equity Markets (2)… see more, Personal Investing (2), Career Development (1), Job Search (1), Ethics (1), Government Policy (1), Personnel Policies (1), Employment and Labor Law (1), Planning (1), Commodity Markets (1), Currency Markets (1), Project Management (1), Small Business (1), E-Commerce (1), Web Development (1), Using LinkedIn (1) see less

Yes! When opportunity knocks, answer the door. The only way to survive. Not networking is a big ensurer of failure in my mind. I used it to sell the socks off my last job opportunity and got 10% more money than I asked for based mostly on recommendations.

Some people are very private people and prefer anonimity though.

Charles Buck

Vice President-Chief Technology Officer, MRK Hostwindow

see all my answers

Absolutely – network, network, network.

Success in business is 1/3 smarts, 1/3 work, and 1/3 opportunity. You’ve got to work hard to be smart, and be smart enough to recognize opportunity when it flows before you. Networking is what keeps one on the banks of the opportunity river.

Arelowo Alao

Java Developer at CSSI Inc

see all my answers

Well the world is changing and is becoming more and more interconnected. The term “it’s about who you know” is more relevant than it has ever been. If you want to be successful you need to interact with people especially if you own your own business or if you’re an entrepreneur. Theses sites can give you exposure to people and new opportunities. It’s basically free advertising.

Damian McNulty

Senior Recruitment Consultant, damianmcnulty@pentaconsulting.com

see all my answers

I couldn’t do my job if I didn’t network. The best candidates are often so busy being good at what they do they don’t have time to job hunt. By having networks through various means (including Linkedin) I am able to find these people, thus ensuring I am successful at my job!
My Networks are in various forms, but sites such as this really help – I can keep track of contacts, build new contacts, get recommendations, pass introductions and so much more!
I don’t do much social networking myself, but I don’t understand why people wouldn’t do one or the other?!
The ‘Who you know’ mentioned previously also helps, often how I win new business and more!
Free advertising, of course it is – helps to add your opinion in Q&A too ;o)

Jeff Posner

Specialist in finding creative funding solutions for businesses and individuals.

see all my answers

Networking has been a way of life for me far before I ever worked for myself. I get a natural high from helping others and count the number of people I help through my network as a measure of my success and not the number of people who help me. In the past I have skipped or walked away from some networking opportunities when I have thought those involved did so purely out of greed or if I felt the resources (time and money) requested of the group or network were excessively high and would distract me too much from focusing on my clients, business, family, friends, and social life.

Others I have seen reject networking in the past have often come back around and regretted their earlier decision. The reasons given for declining opportunities to network range from time and money commitments to the belief that the results would be minimal or less then other methods of direct marketing and sales.

Personally I see many great reasons to network. Not only does networking help in growing a business and finding customers and clients, but in addition find businesses to utilize, employment, professional advice, and some wonderful friendships.

David Wright

Developing today’s talent and tomorrows leaders

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Compensation and Benefits (1)

Thought of myself as a non-networker, didn’t think I was good at it and didn’t feel I had to. Then I was asked “How many jobs have you got soley on your own – without a connection”. I realized, over the past 30 years every job (6) were through referals and networking. Workopolis and Monster are great, but your own network is so much better. Plus the personal benefits of never eating alone and having great friends are great too.

Johan Kok

johan.swerwer {at} gmail.com Business startup/turn-around/strategy, Telco/banking Bus & Tech Architect, moving to UK/CA

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Telecommunications (2)… see more, Internationalization and Localization (1), Change Management (1), Starting Up (1), Enterprise Software (1), Wireless (1) see less

My networking split is 90% business, 10% pleasure. Networking, be it physical or online, has and will always be important, no matter what work you are doing. If you are an employee, you have to sell your skills, personality and/or product, that applies to the street cleaner through to the president of a country or an international corporate. That alone makes networking, in whatever form, worthwhile. As for online networking – tools like linkedin makes it possible to build relationships far beyond what was feasible in the past — with loads of possibilities arising from that.

Clementina Anghelache

PR Specialist

see all my answers

The world has changed a lot and it is not as our parent though us: don’t talk to strangers! We know 200 times more people that our grandparents met in their entire life!
Networking is the new way of doing business and became essential
Of course it is not an easy way, especially if you are shy or have strong beliefs that prevent you from getting in touch with unknown persons. Is like the story with the fox that doesn’t reach the grapes an says they are sour…

Malhar Saheed FCCA

Financial Consultant at Robert Half International

see all my answers

Hello Steve
For me networking has always been business with persons i have pleasure relating to.If it were to lead to other opportunities why not? It would probably lead to a stronger relationship in most This may be business or friendship but its all good.

I also think networking has got stereotyped as a method of finding people who would give you opprtunities only when you need them. So people who are at the bad end feel that they have nothing to gain. True networking should be a win-win situation all the time.Just like in a true friendship.

Overall, its a very positive tool to improve relationships, business or for pleasure.

Anand Iyer

Software Engineer at Motorola

see all my answers

People network for 2 reasons…business and pleasure. I use a variety of websites like linkedin, orkut, facebook.
Business networking (and social networking as well) helps you get back in touch with old friends, colleagues and stay in touch with them. I guess its the “feel good” factor when you realise that you are not alone and do have friends around that draws people to network.
It has also helped people from my generation…around the time I graduated from high school, internet was an unknown concept in India. In fact many did not have even have a phone back then. Thanks to the plethora of networking sites, I have managed to get back in touch with many of them.
Networking also helps you get in touch with people who share similar professional or personal interests. You can share ideas with them and learn from them…even can be useful in finding a job..But for the lack of time, I could just go on and on talking about how useful networking is.

Freddie Scott II

International Internet Business Owner

see all my answers

Yes, I have passed on networking opportunities in the past. Only to regret it later. In the past, I would be “protective” of my “network”, because I didn’t want to introduce a person or business opportunity to someone I respected or who respected me. I did this out of fear of rejection, and I didn’t want to rock the boat.

Now I am constantly thinking of connecting people to people or organizations I know of. I have come to understand that the answer to some peoples prayers, or business struggles are in my ability to connect them to the right resource.

Kelly Long

Executive Assistant at Mesaba Capital Partners

see all my answers

Networking is essential in today’s work place! “It’s all in who you know.”

Kelly Long also suggests this expert on this topic:

• Gregg Blake

Michelle McManus

Online Marketing Manager at Ozburn-Hessey Logistics

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Education and Schools (1)… see more, Professional Organizations (1) see less

If you are passing up an opportunity to strengthen and create relationships and establish trust with your prospect or client for no good reason then you should not be in sales. Relationships and trust, which is best built through strong relationships, are crucial to much success in sales.

Mattia Santin

Search Marketing Specialist at iProspect

see all my answers

Hi Steve,

Networking is King! …and it’s not only about how many linked in connections you have or how many social media website you are registered in. You have to look for networking opportunities on a daily basis or at least be able to recognize them when they pass by. A new contact does not always turn into a goldmine but you’ll never now if you don’t try.

Sometimes it’s hard to build a good network for many different reasons. You may not have the personality to throw yourself at people and create a good contact – this would be me. But unfortunately if you want to remain in the game you have to follow the rules.

Eric Engwall

President and Managing Partner of E.G. Insight, Inc.

see all my answers

I don’t think I’ve ever turned down a request to meet with someone for “networking” purposes. I find it energizing to learn about other people, their jobs, and the organizations they work for. I can honestly say that I have learned something from every person I have met with in a networking environment.

The Good – when I became a business owner last year, I had a strong group of contacts that I could reach out to for the products, services, referrals and advice that I needed. It was a tremendous asset to be able to get referrals for things like moving companies, IT service providers, benefits consultants, etc. I also was able to directly do business with some of those contacts in my network – people I already knew but didn’t necessarily expect to buy from.

The Bad – About the only thing I can think of is when I have encountered a contact who only wants to push their agenda and isn’t interested in my interests or needs. That’s not networking – it’s either a sales call or a job interview, but not networking. In every networking conversation, I try to find a need or a topic where I can assist – “How can I help you?” is a very powerful question and it sets the relationship up as a reciprocal one.

Soren Thompson

Business Resiliency Analyst at JP Morgan Chase

see all my answers

Until recently, I limited my networking to what was absolutely required for me to do my job. Prime example: I registered here on linkedin 2 or 3 years ago and had only 1 contact until a few weeks ago.

However, I have come to realize that not networking is akin to burning bridges. There are opportunities out there and by not networking, I am limiting myself. Many opportunities never make it to the job boards (Monster, CareerBuilder, etc.) because someone who knows someone gets the job before there is a need to post it publicly. Not that this is a bad thing – in fact, it is more often than not a great thing for both the company and the person filling the position.

When opportunities do arise, I find myself in a position where I have to sell myself because I have no references / recommendations / contacts to put in a good word for me.

I have reached the point where I’ve been working in this industry for seven years and have a fraction of the contacts that some people have after only seven months.

After seeing countless opportunities pass me by – and numerous positions going to far less qualified individuals simply because they had the right connections – I have finally come to realize the value of networking.

Bob Cloninger

Training Management

see all my answers

YES! One must network to some degree, (direct or indirect) to survive and then to reach a certain level of success. I have learned to network outside my professional comfort zone, mainly “green”, the military!

Keith Merkley

CEO EIO Mortgage Consulant

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Occupational Training (1)… see more, Staffing and Recruiting (1) see less

Not networking is Death slow painful Death. I have only been networking for a about 1 1/2 years I was introduced to it from my previous employer and I immediatly saw what it could do for me and how I could my skills to help others. I can’t remember where I read it but the quote is the only to get what you want is to help others get what they want. I also remember a song that said when you get older you will need the people you knew when you were young.
I’m not that old but I know that I need the people I new when I was young. Along with linkedin I use classmates and myspace and facebook just so that I can reconnect with people I knew when I was younger. I don’t want to make them think that I just want them to use my services but I want them to know that I want to help them and I know that the laws of nature or karma will catch up with me in the end.
I tell my wife that I help people cause I’m selfish I want to see good things happen for them and me as well. I can truly say that I get more referrals from people who I haven’t done work for in my current position then people who I have just helped in the past. People remember those who help them and also those who caused them harm so always be a helper not a hinderer (is that a word?) .

Dave Pellizzari

Account Manager at Talent Technology Corp.

see all my answers

I think most people here, on this networking site, would agree it is a vital part of our business and social life. That being said, time is a scarce resource and networking does take time away from other areas of my life. Would I rather attend a networking function from 5pm – 7pm or spend time at home with the family? Do I spend 20 or 30 minutes a day on a networking site or that time reading about industry trends that help me with my job. I have made a decision to limit networking to only a couple of sites (Linked In being one) and also limit networking functions to a select few that I know are consistently worth attending like the Vancouver Board of Trade events and such. I think competing forces for the limited number of hours in a day dictate that social networking and business networking activities need to be kept in check or before you know it you’re so busy answering Facebook “pokes” that you’ll want to poke your own eye out.

Jerry Matthew

IT Project Professional & Owner of Oxford Consulting Group

see all my answers

More jobs are uncovered, connections made, problems solved, and questons answered by networking. Why would you NOT network? Networking involves one of the most critical skills needed in any profession – the ability to communicate. If you can talk, you can network. What are you waiting for?

Hazel Walker

Referral Institute Indiana

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Lead Generation (1)

Networking is great, as long as you have a plan. Networking without a plan is like taking off in a car without a destination, where ever you end up is ok. That can be costly in time and money. Understanding why you are networking is important, is it for social interaction, prospecting, meeting and develping relationship with referral sources or just to create visibility in the market place. All are valid reasons to network. Once you know the why, you can develop a networking plan that will give you a return on your investment of time.

Today networking is not about Who You Know, it’s really about Who Knows You.

Curt Tueffert

VP Sales at DXPE

see all my answers

Steven, ALWAYS BE NETWORKING is what I have done for 25+ years. It has given me some great friendships, great contacts, and a place to land when I was laid off (a few times). Use all the tools available to keep your contacts fresh and keep your communication with them current. I have a suggestion for a powerful tool which will help. My hesitation is that I do not want to come across as a seller of tools to the whole community. If you are interested, just reply back and I will be happy to point you in a direction where you can become a world class networker.

Curt Tueffert
tueffert@aol.com

Links:

• http://www.tueffert.com

Brian Delgado

Technical Project Manager

see all my answers

I have yet to receive negative feedback from passing on a networking opportunity to a friend, colleague. While in Business Development, I have always maximized on my ability to reach out to people in my vertical and in parallel verticals. My philosophy on the subject is that you’ll never know when you’ll be able to monetize an opportunity so why shortchange your self!

Brian Delgado also suggests these experts on this topic:

• Michael Burke
• Patrick Dally
• Chip Arndt

Howard Halpern MA CPRW

Certified Professional Resume Writer • Résu-Card ® • Toronto. Contact – no charge – via profile.

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Using LinkedIn (11)… see more, Career Development (3), Staffing and Recruiting (3), Job Search (2), Professional Networking (2), Purchasing (1), Education and Schools (1), Ethics (1), Resume Writing (1), Exporting/Importing (1), Business Development (1), Change Management (1), Organizational Development (1), Small Business (1), Starting Up (1), Telecommunications (1) see less

It all comes down to one thing: effort. It is easier to not network than to network. Most people cannot defer gratification. Hence, they don’t pay much attention to the long-term goal, but to how they are feeling at the moment or how they would like to feel a few minutes later, possibly tomorrow or the next week. For such individuals, networking is too hard, not worth the effort, or simply impossible, given their daily responsibilities. Thus, I invite many people I know personally to join LI, but realize in advance that only a very small % will actually do anything about it. These are the gems who make networking worthwhile.

Wish I had time to answer all of your questions, but unfortunately, I don’t—too many other responsibilities <smile>.

Dom DeBellis

President & CEO, DeBellis Communications

see all my answers

Great questions and equally strong responses from everyone!

I cannot imagine running my business today without networking. Which is weird, because initially I resisted it, not feeling comfortable meeting new people and tooting our horn. But we regularly track our sales, leads, and contacts to conversations, meaning we know the source of every business relationship and trace it to a particular business after-hours event, or trade show, or leads group. So, I can measure the effectiveness of networking and its cash value to our company. Hands down, it’s been more effective than direct response, print ads, anything else we’ve done.

I really am honored when a new client emerges from a referral. I feel like that person has put their relationship to work for me, and I think that’s a fundamentally sacred trust. I do not divide or compartmentalize my business from my personal side; it’s all connected, interdependent, and I believe that when someone chooses to do business with me, I shouldn’t ever take that for granted.

We’ve put our money where our mouth is, because my firm puts networking at the center of our marketing and sales strategy. Every sales person, every marketing person, every partner in our business invests time, energy, and money into joining and participating in networking. I don’t require it, and I don’t have to. I just point to the results we’ve enjoyed and our people see it’s a no-brainer. We’ve even formed an Affiliate program to harness the leads generated by our conversations with other business professionals.

If you’re a business owner, I would think you would know the value of networking. It’s all about keeping the contacts fresh, keeping your face in front of people, so that when opportunities present themselves, you’re top of mind or right in front of them. You can’t focus on doing the work in your business to the exclusion of looking for the next project, the next opportunity, the next relationship, that will propel your business forward. I personally spend at least one morning a week networking with my core group of 35 members, each of us from a different business category. Add to that my chamber events and our Affiliate program, and I’m constantly looking for that next opportunity. At the same time, I’m contributing leads to my fellow networkers whenever I can. Because I meet regularly with these folks, or at least phone them during the week, they’re top of mind with me, so I’m unconsciously looking for business for each of them throughout my week.

If you reject networking, believing you don’t have time or you don’t feel you’ve gotten results from it, perhaps you haven’t given it a fair shake. You must approach networking from a selfless place, directing your energy toward “what can I do to help this fellow’s business?” I’m not saying you don’t have intentions to help your own business, but that you focus instead on giving to another, whether that’s a lead, a contact, or your advice on a particular business issue. The important thing is to remember that what you give, you will receive back somehow, in greater amounts than you gave. This universal idea is timeless because it works!

Dom DeBellis
dom@casadom.com
http://www.DeBellisCommunications.com

Jennifer Killian

Marketing Manager at AdBrite

see all my answers

I’ve had countless positive experiences with in-person and virtual networking. But for the sake of adding diversity here, I’ll add on to Eric E.’s comments on “the Bad”:

I’ve had some invites from prospects or vendors I had barely met, and passed on the opportunity to connect. A few turned out to be really bad apples (1-sided interest, or ineffectual ventures) and I’m glad I followed my gut!

Dave Hong

Information Architect at IS&GS

see all my answers

It’s not really *networking*, it’s making friends and contacts everywhere!

It never hurts to shake someone’s hand and learn their story – as you’ve learned, who you know is as important as what you know.

Eileen Bonfiglio

IT Professional, IS, QA, SCM & Owner of Web Development Firm

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Using LinkedIn (37)… see more, Career Development (8), Staffing and Recruiting (8), Computers and Software (5), Ethics (4), Change Management (4), Quality Management and Standards (4), Freelancing and Contracting (3), Job Search (3), Internet Marketing (3), Business Analytics (3), Organizational Development (3), Blogging (3), Enterprise Software (3), Software Development (3), Education and Schools (2), Certification and Licenses (2), Mentoring (2), Accounting (2), Government Policy (2), Contracts (2), Employment and Labor Law (2), Business Development (2), Inventory Management (2), Project Management (2), Supply Chain Management (2), Biotech (2), E-Commerce (2), Web Development (2), Commercial Real Estate (1), Regulation and Compliance (1), Business Travel (1), Professional Organizations (1), Professional Networking (1), Corporate Taxes (1), Government Services (1), Personnel Policies (1), International Law (1), Internationalization and Localization (1), Treaties, Agreements and Organizations (1), Antitrust Law (1), Direct Marketing (1), Guerrilla Marketing (1), Public Relations (1), Corporate Governance (1), Labor Relations (1), Planning (1), Manufacturing (1), Personal Taxes (1), Starting Up (1), Computer Networking (1), Databases (1), Information Storage (1), Telecommunications (1) see less

Great article! Thanks for sharing both! Networking is a fabulous tool, both social and business, for a multitude of reasons already listed here.

I have found those who are reluctant to attend networking events or participate seem to lack the confidence in either themselves or the network.

Eileen

Erlene LeBorgne

Proprietor, Rosemont Floral

see all my answers

The simple fact of the matter is people do business with people they like. People are more relationship driven then they think. Networking is tremendously important.

Not only should you answer the door when opportunity knocks, you should open the door before the knock is heard and invite opportunity in.

Sergei Karpovitch

Senior Data Security Analyst at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, LLP

see all my answers

Well the answer isn’t that simple as we may think about it. And many people already answered “yes, this is great and we need it”. Reading this question & then an article, my answer was same “yes, we need it “, but after I did some research I thought, maybe I’m wrong and maybe I’m not the only one.
Why?, because there is not only “Why You Should Be Networking” but also “Why You Should Stop Networking”
If you read 2 articles below, it is hard not to accept that both of them have strong points and describe the situation with the networking today: where good and bad walk shoulder to shoulder and we became addicted to it and when we are addicted to something – it is now always something that we need, but it is hard to stop.
-Sergei Karpovitch,
grodno5@yahoo.com

Links:

• http://www.jozzua.com/2007/02/25/reasons-why-you-should-network/
• http://www.womensleadershipexchange.com/index.php?pagename=resourceinfo&res…

Answers (210)

Gaurav Chatterjee (600+)linkedin.gaurav@gmail.com

Managing Partner of Expediant Strtegies & Managing Director of Expediant Solution

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Mentoring (1)… see more, Internationalization and Localization (1) see less

Hi Steve
For me BOTH!
My networking split is 70% business, 30% pleasure. Networking, be it physical or online has and will always be important, no matter what work you are doing.
People network for 2 reasons…business and pleasure. I use a variety of websites like Linkedin, Orkut, Xing and Shelfari.
Business networking (and social networking as well) helps you get back in touch with old friends, colleagues and stay in touch with them. I guess it’s the “feel good” factor when you realize that you are not alone and do have friends around that draws people to network.
It has also helped people from my generation…around the time I graduated; internet was an unknown concept in India. In fact many did not have even have a phone back then. Thanks to the plethora of networking sites, I have managed to get back in touch with many of them.
Networking also helps you get in touch with people who share similar professional or personal interests. You can share ideas with them and learn from them…even can be useful in finding a job. But for the lack of time, I could just go on and on talking about how useful networking is.

Gaurav Chatterjee
Linkedin.gaurav@gmail.com

DSK Rao

President at Cybermate Infotek Limited, IT Strategist, Offshore /BOT expert

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Business Development (1)

Definitely Networking helps,but only if you can demonstrate ‘Value’ to the people in the Network. Mere Network without a differentiator may not help much. So one should first focus on value proposition and be sure about it before showcasing to their network/s.

Brian Kilcrease

Project Manager, Honeywell Global Technology Services

see all my answers

Over the last year I was challenged with stepping into a consulting opportunity and being a Project Manager for a multi-million dollar multi-data center build out. The challenge was that the project was already underway, had no documentation for me to refer to and get up to speed and because the project is a multi-departmental endeavor there is a large amount of politics involved. It was through developing relationships and networking we are in our last phase of the build out and moving forward in a successful collaboration between all of the departments working to mitigate risk and achieve success in rapid order. This is just one of many experiences and examples where networking is the key to success.

Jan Mathijssen

Management Consultant / Financial Interim Manager

see all my answers

Jan Mathijssen suggests this expert on this topic:

• Jan De Vos

Dear Steven,

Jan De Vos is a networking expert in Belgium, expanding his business “internationally”.

Best regards, JM

Sabine Warford

President/CEO Nobility Coaching & Consulting, Inc.

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Mentoring (1)… see more, Labor Relations (1), Starting Up (1) see less

I network for professional as well as personal purposes. I have business partners who have turned friends and friends who have turned business partners over the years. I usually don’t pass up any opportunities to meet someone new and at least take the time to see if there may be a connection. Networking for me is less about finding clients and much more about having a genuine interest in people, business, and conversation.

Links:

• http://www.nobilitycoach.com

Kristen Burnett Ueckert

Owner, Ueckert Realty

see all my answers

Networking is healthy for anyone – entrepreneur or nine-fiver. The benefits are mainly expanding your sphere of influence and your professional growth. Any professional who doesn’t value those two things may as well dig a hole and get in or declare themselves king or queen of the one man band. But I can see why some would place less value in this method of “marketing” over other methods, because I personally have not received a load of “direct” business from networking groups or events as much as indirect, long-term branding of my small biz to others of influence within the same community who share the same business philosophies that I share – ethics, community involvement, etc. ~Kristen Ueckert, Real Estate Broker

Links:

• http://www.ueckertrealty.com

Jean Wilson

Controller @ Richard Petty Racing Enterprises, LLC

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Compensation and Benefits (1)

In my previous position, one of my biggest mistakes was that I got so wrapped up in the daily grind of my job that I didn’t take time to network. The reality is that I enjoy networking and meeting new people and having new opportunities. When I found LinkedIn (it was recommended by 3 different publications), it was awesome. I look at the website every day, answer qauestions if I can, and get really excited when someone new joins my network.

I think it is an excellent way to move your career forward. Being successful has a lot to do with who you know. NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK!

Jean

Elizabeth Wallencheck

Owner, Nexus Career Strategists, Ltd.

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Job Search (5)… see more, Resume Writing (2), Career Development (1) see less

This may sound odd coming from a career coach, but I used to be one of those people who hated the idea of networking. I’m old enough to remember when networking became a buzz word in the ’80’s and the way that the media presented it seemed shallow, manipulative, and mercenary. However, I soon learned in my professional life that networking happens naturally. It’s simply the real connection we make with people on the job, in professional associations, in the community, etc. And business or career networking is simply making these connections purposefully rather than haphazardly.

I think the major reason that people avoid networking is that they misunderstand it. The problem is that networking, at least in job search, appears to be a lot like other things like cold calling or job interviews — situation that make most people uncomfortable, so they simply avoid it. Others misuse it and either aren’t getting results from it or, worse, are turning people off.

Other excuses are that people dislike asking for help – again, based upon a misconconception. Proper networking is simply asking for information, advice, and referral, and by far, the vast majority of people are willing to help in that way.

Others don’t realize that networking is a two-way street. Not only do you benefit from the input and connections of others, but they might also benefit from information you can share, a referral, etc. Even in job search, they might be happy to learn that someone like you is in the market, whether it’s to pass along your name to a colleague or to consider you for their own hiring needs.

Peter Kovacs

Partner at MyCarBiz.com

see all my answers

I agree with Charles, Business Success is 1/3 smarts, 1/3 work, and 1/3 opportunity.

Now, networking can help you with several aspects.

Smarts: By exchanging ideas with people who have different views, perspective, approaches and ideas, you can try new things that you would have not thought about yourself. When working with a multicultural team, I am always amazed by how different people solve problems differently.

Works: By networking, you can easily find people to help you out with a challenge or problem at work. If you need partners, a supplier, or clients, networking can help you find what you’re looking for fast and with higher and better quality.

Opportunity: Now this is a no brainer. You know the saying “At the right place, at the right time” Networking smartly and consistently will put you in many more places. It’s a matter of time before you will be at the right place at the right time.

Andrew Stewart

CEO, sbr | connections

see all my answers

After more than 25 years in IT consulting, I’ve found that research and study will tell you what tools and methodologies are available, but only networking will truly inform you which ones are worth the time, money and effort to pursue.

Andrew Stewart,
andrew@sbrconnections.com

Zach Perkins

Customer Service Representive at LinkedIn.com

see all my answers

LinkedIn is very different in it’s networking style than sites like Myspace or Facebook. LinkedIn is designed for Business networking, while those other sites are designed for social networking.

Social networking has benefits in business, but it is not as targeted. Business networking focuses on transactions, deals and building a network which benefits your overall company in real life.

What can be a hard line to draw is when people mix the two. Social networking involves adding tens of thousands of people you don’t really know, but would like to be associated with. There is no real purpose behind it except for what you may be able to receive or offer the person/organization.

Business networking is stronger when it is more focused on the people you meet on a daily basis. Also, a busy business person does not want to be bothered by constant adding from people they don’t really know. Depending on your purpose, huge networks do not necessarily benefit the company or person using the business networking.

Vladimir Valverde

Owner, http://www.Directoati.com

see all my answers

Well, we all do networking, it’s just a matter of how we do it …

Why I do networking on sites like Linkedin? Because in today’s world you need to get answers, contacts, leads and references at speed of light, so you need to have a pool of brains and relationships to assist you.

By the way, I love the old / new saying : “Build your network while you don’t need it, to use it when you come to need it”

Regards.
Vladimir

Baseemah Gaither

Student at Kaplan University

see all my answers

Networking is probably best entrance portal to the upcoming business market. Many new students and grads look at networking as their way out of their mothers house or just to get away from the old neighborhood. I’ve experience having to take what I know and share it with many others by networking. Although, I have no credit for it, it still has me feeling like I have stepped up a notch to applying myself to the outside world around me. I can say that without knowing somebody out there, you’re liable to miss those opportunities that will see you ahead in life.

Baseemah Gaither also suggests these experts on this topic:

• Steven Burda, MBA
• Edwin Diender

Alla Korenman

Financial Analyst at O’Neill Properties Group

see all my answers

Great question, Steven!

As someone said, “Networking is not a numbers game. The idea is not to see how many people you can meet; the idea is to compile a list of people you can count on.”

~ Alla
~ email: akorenman(at)gmail.com

Links:

• http://www.marketitwrite.com/images/crains.pdf
• http://www.astd.org/NR/rdonlyres/0CC1E5C7-0E9B-4EF3-9A09-F506D3FE6104/12365…
• http://www.ecademy.com/downloads/AFIECC2.pdf

Arseny Ratmansky

Senior Accountant at GfK V2 LLC

see all my answers

People are social creatures, so networking is natural and beneficial. There is a drawback though. While as needed introductions and references are not so hard to obtain for almost any reason with a relatively small network, very large networks might create potential conflicts of interest visible to outsiders. Thus a very large network can be an obstacle to the close bonds with key people.

Adam Lamentowicz

GT Consulting – Owner; PCC SE – Project Development Manager

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Supply Chain Management (2)… see more, Manufacturing (1) see less

I never leave any opportunity without my shot for exploring it…. Sometimes it results me being on more than one job at a time, but I certainly have no regrets whats so ever… Even if an opportunity appears at a later stage to be ‘fake’, It is always better to say that I have given it a shot and checked it out, than to wonder and never try…
As for networking I think its fun and helps business. The worst can happen from networking is that you make more friends and improve you knowledge as you learn from you network almost everyday little bits of information….

Peter Nguyen

Editor in Chief, CareerKnowledge.net (omnidigitalbrain@yahoo.com)

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Career Development (15)… see more, Using LinkedIn (8), Business Development (6), Starting Up (6), Professional Networking (4), Staffing and Recruiting (4), Organizational Development (4), Small Business (4), Mentoring (3), Ethics (3), Planning (3), Education and Schools (2), Advertising (2), Business Analytics (2), Change Management (2), Customer Service (1), Job Search (1), Government Policy (1), Intellectual Property (1), Internet Marketing (1), Public Relations (1), Project Management (1), Product Design (1), Business Plans (1), Information Storage (1), Telecommunications (1), Web Development (1) see less

Networking is good, but few people master the art of strategic networking.

I created an acronym to reflect the various levels of networking effectiveness: S.C.O.P.E.

Secret
Confidential
Oral communications
Paper-based
Electronic

Electronic networking, such as when people invite one another on Linkedin, is the cheapest way to go. It may or may not be effective, depending on the extent to which you master knowledge-sharing and marketing.

However, as we go up the “ladder” of strategic networking and, ultimately, reach the Secret level, where CEOs and covert business agents share secrets, then the value of (or return on) networking exponentially explodes.

Lee Iacocca put it best when he said that “business is just a bunch of guys sharing notes.”

Venkatesh Rao

Researcher at Xerox, writer of the http://www.ribbonfarm.com blog

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Business Analytics (3)… see more, Organizational Development (2), Career Development (1), Enterprise Software (1) see less

There ARE good reasons for shutting yourself off. Many professions thrive on connections, and LinkedIn is full of those types (including me) who’ve self-selected into it. Others can thrive on knowing just a few key good sponsors. Some people need/want to turn themselves into a personal brand whose USP is (partly) defined by his/her network, while others don’t. There is a definite (and very high) cost to networking for some sorts of work which require deep, focused, undistracted thought. Mathematics is one such (even though Paul Erdos, a major genius, is almost the symbol of social networking for the snooty ones who don’t like the Kevin Bacon metaphor). If were about 100 times as talented at math as I actually am, I’d maintain a few key collaborators and shut myself up and become a recluse just working on my problems. That’s what it took for Andrew Wiles to prove Fermat’s last theorem — 6 years of private secluded work! I personally know a few such recluses and feel privileged to know them and be one of their few paths to the rest of the world.

Zulkifly Jamaludin

Freelance Image / Business Consultant

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Using LinkedIn (3)… see more, Certification and Licenses (1), Professional Networking (1), Corporate Debt (1), Venture Capital and Private Equity (1), Sales Techniques (1), Organizational Development (1), Bond Markets (1), Manufacturing (1), Product Design (1) see less

I am sure not everyone is comfortable to network . However if he/she in the business line , perhaps networking could ease the work to find a right vendors/business partner and not too mention creating a new whole business ideas .

But remember l your comfortability above the rest.
Trust yourself and have a confident .

Christopher Mack

Owner, Mack Digital Inc.

see all my answers

If you’re looking to make anything happen in this world, you must network. Not much happens when you sit in the stands looking, you must get out there and see what opportunities are available and in most cases, it’s about who knows you and what you can do. As an entrepreneur, i found that no business happens unless you get out there and network, let the world know who you are, you may even get a date out of it. LinkedIn is a great way to network.

Links:

• http://www.FlirtingTime.com

Christopher Mack also suggests this expert on this topic:

• Sabrina Lamb

Linnea Blair

Business Coach & Consultant, Advisors On Target, LLC

see all my answers

Though I personally believe strongly in networking as critical to building a successful business, I do see that many business owners and managers miss the boat on making this strategy work for them.

As a business consultant, I often hear that business owners and managers are “too busy” to spend time networking. Translated, this can also mean that they find it uncomfortable to do, so it falls to the bottom of their list of priorities.

I encourage all business owners to incorporate networking into their marketing strategy and to make sure that they include some type of networking activity into their schedule on a weekly basis.

I have had several clients who have built their businesses to $1MM before they even started any marketing other than networking and building referrals.

That is testimony to the fact that networking works!

Vera Krasnova (vera.krasnova@xinc.net.au)

Senior Mortgage Broker, XINC Finance

see all my answers

I would like to suggest a great article on networking “How Leaders Create and Use Networks” (Harvard Business Review, January 2007).
It identifies three forms of networking: operational, personal, and strategic. Operational networking helps managers build good working relationships with colleagues. A personal network is a space for personal development and social interraction. A strategic network is a way of building strategic alliences both vertical and horisontal that cross organizational and functional boundaries. The article also tells you how to build these networks. Great read.

Yomar Lopez [ yomar.lopez@gmail.com ]

Modern Marketing Guru, Creative Geek, Success Coach & Business Growth Consultant

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Market Research and Definition (2)… see more, Career Development (1), Job Search (1), Mentoring (1), Writing and Editing (1), Change Management (1), Project Management (1), Starting Up (1), Blogging (1) see less

The easy answer is this: network as much as possible but try to make connections as “warm” as possible. That is, don’t become the piranha that is constantly trying to plug their business or do their sales pitch. I see this all the time and this is where networking becomes unproductive.

In his seminars and keynotes, Michael Dell tends to discuss his system for business, affectionateld called the “Three C’s System”, and I think this applies here. Every business can be broken down into three basic components: Content, Commerce, Community. Other successful business people have a similar system but one thing is always common: community is the biggest part.

Building a community is a combination of many efforts. Naturally, having good, unique content and, more importantly, frequently-supplied content, is key. Products and services are part of that content, along with the value-added content that we provide along with it. Some people feel that their products or services are so good that they do not need to network or “market” it. They feel it will sell itself. This is only the case if you have positioned your product or service so that it can take advantage of a void or a vacuum, as Seth Godin would describe. Most of us here in LinkedIn have a great, somewhat-unique idea, but it is hardly a “purple cow.”

When you offer something that is not viral or self-amplified, the people you connect with are everything. I believe in the simple philosophy of making a friend everywhere you go, no matter what walk of life they may come from. Instead of selling to people, sell through. Let them get to know you first because you are, in essence, the product of the product and, to an extent, a walking brand (see Tom Peter’s article in Fast Company for the “Brand of You” piece that was all the rave for NT Marketers everywhere). The opportunity will present itself naturally. They’ll ask you what you do and, if you don’t push hard, people will often offer their help.

Every time I go to a business function, product launch, professional mixer, seminar/convention, or a similar event, I see the sales piranha scaring people away. It’s so much easier to make friends and allow them to offer their help. If you really have something interesting or at least present it in an interesting manner, your energy itself will become viral and each person you make a warm connection will, in turn, become what Godin calls a “sneezer”, spreading your marketing message to others.

The only time I would pass on a networking event is if I feel that I am at or over my capacity to handles clients in my business but, even then, it’s best to nurture relationships that may be useful in the future. On that end, I know I can be better about praoctively making contacts and keeping the network going. Meeting people regularly helps ensure organic growth, which is where I feel many companies lack.

Almost everwhere you go, there is someone looking to get behind something like what YOU are offering but you can’t possibly find them if you are not out there. Naturally, the marketing methods that bring those people to you tend to be more effective because they draw in those that are actively looking but meeting people is never a waste. If you get to meet their friends and friends of their friends, a few degrees later may very well lead to the hot contact you’ve been looking for. The way I see it, sometimes all you need is that ONE to get things going. The one key influencer that has access to a huge sphere of influence can be your best referral network and, heck, maybe even a customer!

There’s a reason that social networking and social media applications in general are booming right now. It seems like luck that some of these simple, one-size-fits-all sites grow so rapidly but the reality is that it starts with a few excited people who talk to their friends who in turn talk to their friends. Meet people and spark your own momentum!

Links:

• http://yogizilla.wordpress.com

Chris Clemens

West Coast Sales & Service

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Professional Networking (1)

If you can successfully join business and pleasure together then your “Networking” will be for business AND pleasure…it will be for your life. It will not seem like work and you will receive both personal and professional benefits from the energy you put into meeting new people and building your social network of friends. By choosing a career that you enjoy and fits your personality your networking will be a normal everyday thing that you will never have to force yourself to do. Networking should be for your life.

Misty Khan

President & CEO Advena Artemis LLC

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Customer Relationship Management (5)… see more, Using LinkedIn (4), Starting Up (3), Business Development (2), Professional Networking (1), Public Relations (1), Organizational Development (1), Small Business (1), Enterprise Software (1) see less

I’m a huge believer in networking, but I have recently found that I do need to be more careful about how I spend my time.

For example, I’m happy to meet someone for breakfast, coffee or lunch during normal business hours, but I don’t do evening networking events because I have small children – they are only this age for a very short period of time so my evenings and weekends belong to them. (no one laugh because I’m making this post on a Saturday).

Also, I’m trying to get better about qualifying networking leads just like I would qualify business leads – if you have a lot on your plate; your time is really valuable. That is not to say that I take a “what’s in it for me” approach – I make time for a lot of entrepreneurial students at local universities and friends who need help thinking through a strategy because people have always been and still are willing to help me.

Best regards,
Misty Khan

Jeffrey A. Ploetz

CTO at VRSurgeon Inc. Information Technology and Services Consultant

see all my answers

Hello Steve,
I am also a firm believer in networking for business and friendships. The world is at our fingertips with blogs and tools such as LinkedIN. Working out of upstate NY, I certainly have access driving 2 hours in any direction to knock on doors of major technology sectors like Boston, NYC, Syracuse or Quebec. However the boom of social / business virtual networking has expanded one`s reach exponentially and I see no drawbacks!!

My one concern resides with students (both HS and College) who may be networking and providing *too much* information such that online predators have the upper hand to seek out victims. But as you know, this issue is best dealt with education from the homestead. I am willing to bet everyone on this forum has strict policy for their children who are registered with accounts for FBook, MSpace, TownConnect.com, BlogSpace, etc…

Keep on Networking and see you at the next Virtual stop!
Jeff
JeffPloetz@VRSurgeon.com

Dharminder Salwan (dharamsalwan@hotmail.com)

Senior Manager – Facilities & Projects – Prudential UK Plc

see all my answers

Steven,

You seem to have ignited a chain of responses with your query !! Well my response as usual has and will be a revolutionary one !!

Networking is only for Business (personal use)- now the debate is why ? well networking is done with a common objective of knowing people in various capacities and to use or make use of those people to be of some sort of assistance to you when you need something personally or inderectly to benefit someone though with your benefit being in place !!! Dont see any reason why people (who claim otherwise are hypocrites) would want to network without any business … even best of friends form part of one’s network..,,, would want to know anyone who can prove that networking is not for business and for pleasure . . . . .It certainly cannot be for both !! NO WAY !!

Even friends are used for favours are’nt they ?

Audrey Henderson

Researcher, Data and Policy Analyst / Moderator: Expertise for Hire, Linked Group Moderators & WUF3/FUM3 Alumni/Allies

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Job Search (2)… see more, Internationalization and Localization (2), Using LinkedIn (2), Public Relations (1) see less

I won’t repeat all the virtues of networking — 50+ respondents arrived ahead of me, and said pretty much all that needed to be said there. However, I can personally attest to having passed up networking opportunities in the past, and most likely will do so in the future. Why, you might ask?

As an introvert, I have encountered rough sledding when attempting to “schmooze” at in-person functions, and even with virtual networking on sites such as this one. It’s exhausting and draining for me, and I just can’t motivate myself to do much of it. So I don’t.

However, I know that networking is essential, and more and more as the world grows smaller in so many ways. How to cope? I am adapting the networking process to my strengths. I have had reasonably good luck approaching even complete strangers by e-mail, because I research their backgrounds (professionally, I’m not a stalker), and carefully compose my approach. I also try to relate my credentials and background to my request, for instance, in order to demonstrate how I am qualified (if I am asking about work opportunities).

As for LinkedIn, I was a member for years before I actively pursued contacts. In fact, I was very close to deleting my profile altogether when I was approached by a very kind person who offered support and good advice. Since then I have added a number of contacts, not randomly collecting as many as I can, but in a meaningful fashion. I have also enjoyed answering some of the many interesting questions posed here.

As far as in-person networking goes, I will never be gregarious and outgoing, or any good at small talk, and I realize it is counterproductive for me to try to force myself to be so. However, I try to be approachable and sincere. If there is someone I particularly want to meet, I try to at least introduce myself. I find it helps if I am able to say something like “Congratulations on receiving blah blah award,” or “I am really interested in the work you are doing in such and so area.” I have also found that if I limit the number of approaches I initiate, it is easier for me to actually follow through.

Wallace Jackson

Multimedia Producer, Mind Taffy Design; Graphics Design and 3D programming for Acrobat 3D PDF

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Web Development (3)… see more, Advertising (2), Graphic Design (2), Using LinkedIn (2), Internationalization and Localization (1), Direct Marketing (1), Events Marketing (1), Guerrilla Marketing (1), Internet Marketing (1), Viral Marketing (1), Sales Techniques (1), Change Management (1), Computers and Software (1), Wireless (1) see less

The main antithesis to “networking” is “privacy,” and the aura of “political correctness” that now surrounds the privacy issue much as it does race! LI has succumbed to this political correctness in such a major way that it restricts exactly those kinds of opportunity that you speak about so vividly within your question. FEAR is False Evidence Appearing Real, and the over-hyped “privacy” issue, that is in large part (primarily) the fault of overly aggressive tele-marketers in the 1980’s and 1990’s, is now being “paid for” by all of us networkers on LinkedIn. It’s sad that this fear and political correctness has to hamper the vast and incredible opportunities that could happen, but that’s just the way it is. I hope LI reverses their policy on this.

Links:

• http://www.mindtaffy.com
• http://www.Acrobat-3D.com

Gemma Toth

Human Resources Professional

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Career Development (1)… see more, Compensation and Benefits (1), Personnel Policies (1) see less

As the term goes, “it’s not what you know is who you know?” I am part of the Business Network International (BNI) and 80% of my business is from business referrals. You never know who is connected to who and how you can benefit from those connections whether its for personal or business gain. I was never into networking, but BNI and my sister who introduced me to LinkedIn are a good testament why everyone should learn how to network.

Links:

• http://www.bni.com

Answers (210)

Dylan Steeg

Senior Investment Manager at Intel Capital

see all my answers

Continuous networking is essential to me for two main reasons. First, as someone in the business of technology, networking is a key element of keeping on top of the current and future technical trends that an investor must be aware of, both to determine the value and uniqueness of a start-up’s solutions when considering an investment, as well as monitoring how your portfolio companies are doing relative to market leaders and other competitors. Second, networking provides the single largest conduit of opportunities (investment opportunities, employment opportunities, due diligence information, etc.). People inherently want to discuss their interests and to help those who help them to achieve their goals.

I have found the following to be key in optimizing your networking:
i) actively surround yourself with smart individuals who are active in your areas of interest (likely obvious to most),
ii) network with humility and open mindedness (realize that there are others who are smarter than you and learn from them without bias), and
iii) reciprocate (actively share useful information within your network and think of ways to help network members to achieve their goals. It is absolutely essential that you support your network and add your own unique value).

Paul Anthony Ali Zaman

Equity markets, investor relations, corporate strategy, sustainability, CSR, telecoms, eVillage, ayniabundance NGO,

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Venture Capital and Private Equity (1)… see more, Hedge Funds (1) see less

Being connected with passion is a critical part of manifesting what you want. Networking by sharing your time with others by giving first is critical to being the best you can be. Network with the philosophy of giving without expectation of reward or gain.

Alicia Roisman Ismach

Co-Founder & VP BD at SeerGate

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Starting Up (1)

Some people see networking as a way of life; others see it as a pure business tool. Undoubtedly, even in our private life, everything stands on interests, purposely or not. Networking is a tool, for some instinctive and for others acquired with hard work, and it delivers well for both business and pleasure. Each individual chooses, according to his/her own interests at a given time, for which purpose s/he is employing this effective and world reaching tool. Sometimes it goes together, and then satisfaction is guaranteed.

Venkat Reddy TopLinkedIn2500(mr.mvreddy@gmail.com)

Director,Mutagen Consulting Services (mr.mvreddy@gmail.com)

see all my answers

Networking is all about People relation, I believe in People relation, Its difficult to meet all, but the technology helps in communicating in good and bad times and Networking is a great solution. It helps in business, it helps in building human relations. As i am into a business where i have to be in a network of people in volumes, its the best solution, It’s a pleasure and business Interest too.

Virender Vaira

Asst General Manager at Indo Asian Fusegear Limited

see all my answers

Professional Networking like LinkedIn is playing important role for business as well as social interaction. It promotes “feel good spirits” within yourself, being part of a group with similiar goals and ambitions, which in fact is most essential for your success. Networking also promotes discipline and you are encouraged to maintain a level of sincerity & purpose.

So I suppose professional netwroking has positive influence on our working and progress.

There could be some individuals or corporates who desire to work in isolation due to the type of their oprations where secrecy may be the key factor and should be taken as general rule.

For me networking has proved a big booster.

Claudia Del Giudice

Highly Motivated Marketing Manager: claudiadelgiudice@gmail.com

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Education and Schools (1)… see more, Career Development (1), Staffing and Recruiting (1), Internationalization and Localization (1) see less

I simply like it: I always receive very good answers and I can make questions. And I have learned something from every person in networking

Michael Straus

Public Relations – Straus Communications, LLC

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Professional Networking (1)… see more, Public Relations (1) see less

I’d guess that you’re asking the wrong audience – that most, if not all, people using social networking sites like LinkedIn.com are ahead of the curve taking advantage of networking opportunities.

Sal Salvatierra, EMS/CEA

Director at Bayview 1031 Exchange

see all my answers

I can’t imagine anyone not networking….its better then cold calling! its the ability to create honest, trustworthy relationships that will monitize themselves over time. I for one practice the art of social networking at ever opportuntiy.

Cheers
Sal

Mads Anker Buchter

Logistics Controller at Syddanske Medier

see all my answers

Based on the answers, I would say that asking people who network (in this particular manner) if networking is good, is as good a way to get a varied response as asking whether winter bathing is good from people wearing nothing but bathing trunks and ice picks in the dead of winter.
I think, that everyone but hermits network all the time – more effiecently or less – but networking all the same.
If we narrow the question down a bit: why would people choose NOT to network on the internet, then I can think of possible reasons.
E.g. Not wishing to share network or become more visible to the public than you already are.
Too many people, who have people in their network they don’t really know, thus lessening the value of the entire concept.
Rollerdexophilia and you could go on.
Personally I too think it’s great fun, but I have yet to see something more practical come out of it than a good way of keeping up with changing emailadresses of friends and former colleagues and a place to get some quick answers to a questions relating to professional matters.

Richard Hull

Founder / President – The Instructor Group

see all my answers

Yes, answer the door! I have to admit that I am more a networker these days now that I have just launched a business. I actually regret not doing more of it throughout my careers (military and insurance). I used to be so focused on my goals and objectives that I thought I didn’t have time for it.

Bootstrapping a business and trying to brand an image absolutely does not work in achieving your goals without networking. I have come to see the extreme importance of networking (both professionally and personally) and really I think the naysayers are kindof like I used to be. There may be a notion among them that “folks who network don’t work” or don’t work enough? In an office environment if I saw folks jaw jacking a little too long – I would think they have time management skill deficiencies. Well now I KNOW that it is crucial part of the business process!
Richard Hull
http://www.theinstructorgroup.com
richardhull@theinstructorgroup.com

Joe Laing

Director of Marketing at El Monte RV

see all my answers

Joe Laing suggests this expert on this topic:

• Chien Wang

Olav Baltussen

Branchmanager at Adecco Technical Rotterdam

see all my answers

You should be networking for fun. Networking is essential in todays business. It is all about who you know and who do your collegues, friends or businessrelations know. If you do it well, it can give you great opportunities. But most of all: you must have fun in networking. If you do not have fun in networking, networking will not be succesful for you.

Leslie-Anne McAllister

Internet Marketing Genius at ReachLocal

see all my answers

Within my circle of contacts personally and professionally, I’m known as a networking guru. (I don’t know if that’s really accurate!) However, I love meeting new people and learning about them and how I can help them -and vice-versa.

I do the standard networking events, I’ve created my own networking groups and I even spend my ‘downtime’ in a coffee shop or other place where there’s free wifi – I won’t meet anyone new if I’m sitting at my desk!

I know everyone in my network – with the exception of maybe 3 people. I make a point of connecting with them. I don’t want to refer or recommend someone that I don’t know…

I do look at the reciprocity though – there are those that seem to be happy to take take take but give nothing in return. I go through my contacts and do clean folks out from time to time.

David Battle

Doctoral Student at Capella University interested in free-lance Instructional Design projects

see all my answers

Why should you network, you ask?

I am looking into being a free-lance instructional designer so that my expertise can be developed and known. If starting up an independent business is what one is looking for, networking can supply needed connections to build one’s business. That is reason #1.

Reason #2: It’s great to connect with old friends again. However, it is unlikely that one may know your old friend’s new friendships that they may have developed. Those friendships just may benefit you. This is a rapid-changing world, including one’s relationships and connections. One should be alert to opportunities that may open as a result.

Hope it helps,
David Battle

Jim Moore

Business Development Executive

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Sales Techniques (1)

I hate to show my age, but the only way to get anything done before the Info Age hit us was to network. It was all only white guys though. 🙂
And mostly over martinis! 🙂

But having said that, SOME tried and true practices are worth reconsidering.
Now if I could only find people who like old white guys 🙂

Thomas Power – TopLinked.com

Chairman at Ecademy and Owner, Ecademy.com

see all my answers

You never know who knows who and how they know them, it’s critical to be networking all day everyday.

Networking is all about connecting people and your job is to make those connections for other people every chance you get.

Links:

• http://www.ecademy.com
• http://www.facebook.com
• http://www.linkedin.com

Russ Kovar(rkovar1@msn.com)

Service Delivery Manager at The Nielsen Company

see all my answers

Networking is part of my daily routine. One tip I can pass along is listen and learn from your network contacts and continue to gain information and experiences that will help you in your job, career goals and personal life.

Best Regards;

Russ Kovar

Atul Sahay

Director – Global Business Development

see all my answers

Hummm !! , quite serious and thought provoking question !!

As soon as I look back in the days, started working as HR Professional, and ponder over the subject , I can only think of : What was the gain of efforts of recruiting professionals at different levels?!!

It was meeting professionals from all across the globe and inducting some of them in the organizations I worked for. When such people moved up in ladder to different organizations, some helped in finding excellent professionals, some recommended my expertise to different organizations, and some followed me to my next organization, when I needed them. AND Those, I could not recruit for some reason, still remained in touch and helped in many different ways , helping others to find a place in their organizations.

The GAIN is a solid time tested NETWORK at international level and PLEASURE of still working with friends I believed in and they believe in me.

Toni Havlik

Sr. Recruiter (Toni.linkedin@gmail.com)

see all my answers

Networking is important for the way of life.

As many of my contacts know I will send them jobs I am working on but others that I come across (at other companies) that may be benefical to them or someone they know.

Why not pay it forward? Its a sense of community that we need to have.

Ellen Schulz

Engaging. On target. Real results in record time. Executive Leadership Coach, Professional Speaker, Author

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Corporate Governance (2)… see more, Staffing and Recruiting (1), Offshoring and Outsourcing (1), Quality Management and Standards (1), Personal Debt Management (1), Using LinkedIn (1) see less

Networking is my primary strategy to grow my business. The secondary strategy is speaking at associations, etc.. but that requires Networking. It is never, “just business.” If I don’t feel the warmth of a personal connection then I move on and look deep into the eyes of the next person for depth and welcome. This is how I have found my very best friends. They are a treasure in my life. I was looking for business opportunities and found so much more. 🙂
Ellen Schulz
CEO of Next Level Results, Inc.

Donald Davies

Executive Interim Management Consultant {LION 1900+}

see all my answers

Philosophically, my sense is that networking is the new enlightenment, its not even about pleasure versus business

Embrace the global network.

I think I now have contacts in most countries. I you live in a country that I am not connected to, lets connect.

donaldidavies<at>gmail.com

Clarification added 2 months ago:

Philosophically, my sense is that networking is the new enlightenment, its not even about pleasure versus business

Embrace the global network.

I think I have contacts now in most countries. If you live in a country that I am not connected to, lets connect.

donaldidavies<at>gmail.com

Kari Salkunen

Head of Administration, TKK Dipoli; to connect: kari.salkunen @ iki.fi

see all my answers

Why not? -this is to answer to your question – thanks.

I did go through the article – I suppose we never hug… this part does not override the first sentence.

All the best,
kari

Clarification added 2 months ago:

Had the pleasure to look the other answers – aren’t many of us mixing connecting and networking? First you connect, secondly you should respect this new connection and thirdly you’re ready to refer this connection to someone else – when you do these three steps you’ve been networking. Otherwise you ‘just’ connect… e.g. exchange business cards or pull out names from attendance roster or…

Michael Rowley

Manager of IT Risk Management & Security at Kautex Textron and Owner, Impact! Interior Design Solutions

see all my answers

Steven

life is too short NOT to network… Sine I have become more effective maintaining contact via “Linkedin” I have received at least 4 very attractive job offers and opportunities… and I am not really looking.

I have also been more effective in helping 4 people within my immediate job network achieve introduction and later job offers.

Networking is truly essential

Michael J. Rowley
IT Risk Management & Security
http://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeljrowley
michaeljrowley at gmail dot com

Marietta C. Baglieri

Executive Director, Friedman & Wexler, LLC

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Ethics (7)… see more, Using LinkedIn (6), Professional Networking (3), Event Services (1), Facilities Management (1), Business Travel (1), Mentoring (1), Exporting/Importing (1), Internationalization and Localization (1), Business Analytics (1), Supply Chain Management (1), Positioning (1) see less

Hello Steven, wow what a good question and well supported by the outpouring of responses!

You make a very good point .. if opportunity knocks, and nobody is home, you don’t even allow yourself the option of DECIDING whether or not to answer the door .. if you’re not networking, you’ll never know that ANYONE knocked, much less who ..

I find networking, both professionally and socially broadens not only your horizons but your perspectives and your prospects. What’s the saying — if you stop growing you die? ..

Go Rick! (Go Steven!) .. I find business contacts, old colleagues, new prospects and candidates, every day here .. I think it’s tantamount to keeping on top of things and I can say, without reservation that for me, much good has come of it .. thanks! Marietta

Animesh Tiwari

Operation Manager-South Asia at Harris Stratex Networks India Pvt Ltd

see all my answers

Networking sites works like media for us. Knowing the fact that we can not have those media glare that celebrities have, no matter how good are we in our field. Even we can not put our work on exhibitions like artist does or in can not participate in any singing competition etc. etc.

And at this moment we need a platform which can evaluate us on larger scale and make the audience available to witness it.

Rest of the things are bonus and important indeed.

Lubna Kably

International tax consultant and newspaper columnist

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Career Development (2)… see more, Personnel Policies (2), Internationalization and Localization (2), Using LinkedIn (2), Professional Organizations (1), Ethics (1), Professional Networking (1), Government Policy (1), Events Marketing (1), Public Relations (1), Organizational Development (1) see less

Hi

Travel they say expands the mind. So does networking, even in cyberspace through mediums like Linked In. Tangible results or not (such as a job offer or a new client), it definately results in sharing of views and thoughts. Thus, I network.
Unfortunately limited time, does not permit me to accept invites for other forums such as Facebook and what have you. For the time being I am just sticking with LI, guess in some ways it does have the first mover advantage.
Cheers
Lubna

Jaroslav [LION] Pros 1700+ jarda.linkedin@gmail.com

Local operational risk manager CSOB (KBC Group) ► Owner of Networking pros/global group ►MyLink500.com ►TopLinked.com

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Using LinkedIn (20)… see more, Professional Networking (7), Education and Schools (3), Charity and Non-Profit (2), Customs, Tariffs and Taxes (2), Risk Management (1), Internationalization and Localization (1), Finance and Securities Law (1), Advertising (1), Business Development (1), Lead Generation (1), Planning (1), Derivatives Markets (1), Equity Markets (1), Option Markets (1), Quality Management and Standards (1), Pricing (1), Blogging (1), Enterprise Software (1), Databases (1), Telecommunications (1), Software Development (1), Wireless (1) see less

Steve, great question and also great answers, i think you are all networking professionals, for which i created special linkedin group please join here
http://www.linkedin.com/e/gis/38466/66C3A7773712

we can have discussions about networking then on
http://networkingpros.collectivex.com

I am looking forward to see you all there
Jaroslav

Ritika Pawar

Associate Consultant at FutureStep – A KORN/ FERRY Company

see all my answers

I completelyagree to Mr Venkat Reddy’s answer “NETWORKING IS ALL ABOUT PEOPLE RELATION ” . It helps you connect with people across all verticals and domains .Networking for me doesn’t stop to People Relation but also helps me in understanding different Industries besides the one I am associated with . For an example to state I have come across few people through Linked In who at the moment are Gems in their Respective Field who have helped me understand their vertical and helped me build more on my contacts . I donot shy away acknowledging the fact that I have found some true Mentors through the Networking Forum .

Best Regards
Ritika

Mansing Bhor

Area Managing Officer at London Borough of Tower Hamlets & looking for new opportunities in INDIA

see all my answers

Hello Steven,

I have read some where that, “Network analysis produces an alternate view, where the attributes of individuals are less important than their relationships and ties with other actors within the network”

When it comes to the level of professional linking I always believe this is not just gives you great experience of sharing business value, knowledge but also determine the social capital of individual actors.

It also gives you the interaction with each other and will help you for hiring, in business success, and in job performance.

There are so many ways you can get connected with people on different levels of subject. I am believer of “when opportunity knocks, answer the door?”

I hope this will help!!

Mansing Bhor

Alex Houtart

Senior Market Manager at SWIFT

see all my answers

Hi Steve,

you won’t find anybody against networking on LinkedIn;-). Your feedback might miss some balance.

Anyway, my opinion is “don’t wait for the opportunity and knock the door yourself”. Here an example to share with you all. I like to organise what I call “internal networking”, being IN your own company. It helps to – better welcome newcomers – break the silo mentality – improve loyalty to the company. My best experience : “SPEEDNETWORKING” game for colleagues.

Here the rules of the game. The invit is posted on the homepage of our internal website. It is open to everyone, any division, any seniority. In the “invitors team”, I found someone from each division in order to have a “representative” effect.

Don’t hesistate to try it in your comapny as well. It is a lot of fun and it really works. Now, it is overbooked every month!

Here is the template for invit.

“Welcome to the first Speednetworking session. Free registration! 40 seats, first come, first served.

Place :
Time :

1. You will receive a coloured badge. It will randomly be blue (water) or orange (fish);

2. You will be seated in pairs, one water + one fish;

3. Chat: introduce yourself, talk about what you do, what your hobbies are, share a secret…and reverse;

4. After 5 minutes, the music will announce it’s time to meet a new colleague;

5. All the fishes swim to the next water;

6. Chat some more;

7. We end the speed networking session after one hour, and move on to a casual mix and mingle over drinks.

Your presence is the key value of the game, so please be there on time!

We are looking forward to seeing you and have fun!

The organisation team (signatures)”

Regards

Alex

Answers (210)

Danny Small

Motivational Change Consultancy – Business & Personal Support [danny@kelta-associates.co.uk]-LION

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Using LinkedIn (5)… see more, Mentoring (2), Career Development (1), Professional Networking (1), Personal Debt Management (1) see less

Hi Steve,

Really good article. Yep we must network virtual or real, it’s about getting together and making new connections, who knows where it will lead, one things for sure, “If you don’t ask, you won’t get”
Danny

Marlene Ricketts

Vice President, Underwriter at Capmark Finance, Inc.

see all my answers

Unfortunately I don’t network as hard and as often as I know I should. I am trying to rectify that by making it part of my daily routine. Thanks for the gentle reminder Steve.

Olga Kellen

Research Professional, Translator, Citizen of the World

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Using LinkedIn (8)… see more, Writing and Editing (4), International Law (2), Business Development (2), Business Travel (1), Career Development (1), Job Search (1), Professional Networking (1), Economics (1), Personnel Policies (1), Staffing and Recruiting (1), Exporting/Importing (1), Internationalization and Localization (1), Events Marketing (1), Lead Generation (1), Manufacturing (1), Interface Design (1), Incorporation (1), Starting Up (1) see less

it’s here:
http://how-i-started-on-linkedin.blogspot.com/2007/10/power-of-linkedin-2.html

Links:

• http://how-i-started-on-linkedin.blogspot.com/2007/10/power-of-linkedin-2.h…

AMBROSE MUSCAT

Head of Wealth Management at British American Investment Group

see all my answers

Well I have been approached on LinkedIn too. Was not connected to the chap in any way but he found my details by searching. Networking sites are excellent for headhunting etc and allow users to access thousands of opportunities all over the globe that would otherwise go by completely unnoticed by anyone except those in the immediate geographic vicinity. Networking is no longer optional it is a fact of life, and a must for any successful business.

Robert Orr

(Next Level) Customer Service, Account Management, Project Management, Corporate Sales

see all my answers

I think networking is great. Most people enjoy interacting with colleagues and sharing ideas. What is Evan better is reconnecting with lost contacts, and making new connections. Having positive professional interactions has many benefits. I recently joined Linkedin and have been able to connect with many people I would not have normally run across. I recommend networking to anyone who is interested in; advancing in their career, or making a contribution to their actual or virtual community.

Kira Nijenhuis

Founding Partner of Cosmo Polite

see all my answers

Dear Mr. Burda,

I did not read the 95 answers, so my insight might be abundant. I network socially; I meet people and try to find out how I could help them. In turn, they are helping me. Sometimes business comes out of it (job offers, partnership offers), sometimes a friendship, sometimes other positive things.

I detest business networking, though. I feel like a pig on a meat market… And as a pig I can only be beneficial to the other when i’m slaughtered.

Networking has a negative connotation, whereas it can be fun, very helpful and make you feel appreciated for who you are and what you do.

Kind regards,
Kira

http://www.the-socialnetworker.com

Prakash P.S.

India Country Manager-Anite Telecoms

see all my answers

Networking really helps in all walks of life. Sites like Linked IN in my opinion helps people to:

1) Connect with like minded people/groups etc
2) Establish/re-connect with old pals/classmates, stay connected
3) Mutually help each other, with the insights-Strengths of particular traits required to succeed.
4) Getting global view to validate opinions, share information, acts as a great catalyst, supplementer to get info
5) Critical to networking is making contacts with strangers/unknown people. So one should have an open mind to be successful

Norman Kromberg

Technology, Governance, Audit, Compliance, Risk Management, Quality, Management Consulting and Professional Services

see all my answers

I would say ongoing networking is key to being a professional in this day and age. First, if done professionally, you can stay current with trends in your area of expertise, thus making you a more valuable employee. Second, I one let my network decline and had to rebuild it which was a valuable learning experience. Third, I have found networking can help with hobbies. For example, I like wine and have talked with people from the industry via Linkedin networking.

Badri Narasimhan, PMP

Senior IT Consultant & PMP

see all my answers

Hi Steve,

In my opinion Networking is for both “business and pleasure”. You won’t believe, I found my pal after 25 years. Linked In gives any sort of updates in your network, who is watching you and gives direction to go forward based on the trend.

Ramamoorthy Muthiah

VP – Software Development, Digital Bhoomi Software Pvt Ltd

see all my answers

Networking is a must if you run business. I missed some promising connections, due to my nature. I just didn’t want to feel rejected! I used to work as a programmer, I was under the belief that networking is not needed for IT people. The truth is if you want to come up in your career, networking is essential. That’s why we all joined this site 😉

Pathy R V C

Senior Human Resources Specialist at Motorola India Private Limited

see all my answers

Being a social animal, I think it is by nature that we are designed to network. Most times it is the collective wisdom which can help us tide through situations. Helps us connect people – knowledgeable to who want to know, experienced to who wants to go through an experience, seer to who want to see.

It helps staying networked. Business or Pleasure

Kathie M. Thomas

Author, Blogger, Founder of Virtual Assistant Industry in Australia, Speaker, VA Coach

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Using LinkedIn (29)… see more, Career Development (6), Internet Marketing (3), Customer Service (2), Education and Schools (2), Freelancing and Contracting (2), Business Analytics (2), Small Business (2), Business Insurance (1), Mentoring (1), Professional Networking (1), Charity and Non-Profit (1), Staffing and Recruiting (1), Offshoring and Outsourcing (1), Public Relations (1), Writing and Editing (1), Organizational Development (1), Equity Markets (1), Manufacturing (1), Starting Up (1), Blogging (1), Computers and Software (1), Web Development (1) see less

The first book I read before starting my business was about Networking for Success (by Robyn Henderson) and I have applied many of the principles of this book in my business life in the past almost 14 years.

‘m a firm advocate of networking and was often called the ‘networking queen’ in the BNI chapters I belonged to. Why? Because I spend time getting to know people and their needs and then match them up with someone who can help them. That means I’m not always their answer with respect to providing a service or product, but I am their answer with respect to making the connections – that’s why people keep coming back to me when they have a need – and they bring others!

Links:

• http://www.networkingtowin.com.au/store1.html

Martin Czebotar

Six Sigma black belt / Quality Manager / Auditor / Polymer Chemist

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Using LinkedIn (8)… see more, Professional Networking (3), Business Development (2), Biotech (2), Certification and Licenses (1), Occupational Training (1), Venture Capital and Private Equity (1), Advertising (1), Sales Techniques (1), Corporate Governance (1), Change Management (1), Supply Chain Management (1), Individual Insurance (1), Product Design (1), Starting Up (1), Software Development (1), Wireless (1) see less

Hi Steve,

I have been networking fully for the last 2.5 years; right after being let go for the first time in a 28 years career. A very rude awakening! Now, networking is a very big part of my life not only for myself but people within and outside of my network. Besides it fits my personality. Great stuff.

Networking assisted me in finding my current position, it gave me a nudge.

Until I retire, networking is now in my blood. Every time I receive an email like yours, it gives me that much more energy to continue networking for others.

Best regards,
Martin

Edward Cruz, MBA

Service Readiness Trial Project Manager / Trial Scope & Commitment Manager

see all my answers

The article you posted was very good reading. I find networking very useful not only for business but also personal. Alot of information distributed through networks. Many doors are open through networking (eg: a job has opened but has not been posted, this allows you the chance to get the information and apply to the position). As for the personal apsects, everyone ask do you know a good mechanic? A good dentist? a good doctor? your personal network helps you get the information and my also help you in finding people that can get the job done for a decent price. WORD OF MOUTH (Networking) is very important in the business world.

Jay Michael Jaboneta

Management Trainee, ANZ Asia-Pacific’s Graduate Program

see all my answers

Networking will be truly unleashed in the future. As newer and better technologies and devices emerge, keeping tab on people you’ve met, their personal details and just going out with them from time to time will be a lot easier and more engaging. Networking sites truly allow anyone to enjoy greater opportunities which are not at their disposal if they don’t know so many people.

Trish Lizares

Director of Recruitment at Global Response, Inc.

see all my answers

Yes! I started networking quite recently, and the advantage for me is that not only did I gain knowledge about so many things, specifically in recruitment, which is my niche, but I gained contacts and friends as well. And they have been able to help me tremendously in more ways than I can imagine. It’s amazing what your network can do for you.

Tania Lukinyuk

Brand Manager at Coca-Cola Company

see all my answers

Networking is a great thing for me! I worked in many places and I am also part of Toastmasters community – I know unbelievable amount of people in Kiev. How it helps? My ex-colleagues and partners helped me to find job even without me asking – four times! Including my latest job – which was a dream for several years. Plus knowing people personally helps in initiating some co-projects. And my networking partners are invaluable tool for references on potential employee or employer.

Andrew Scherer

Principal Consultant, Enterprise Portals

see all my answers

It took me a long time to learn that lesson. Trusted relationships are unquestionably a benefit and need ongoing care and attention.

Ravin Kayasth

Project Leader at Wipro Technologies

see all my answers

Well, networking has been the way of life since last few years…..
if you are not connected, then you are gone…..it will like a life on an island….networking ensures both -> business as well pleasure….

David Humair [LION] (naoh.10n@gmail.com)

Senior Programme Manager

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Government Policy (1)… see more, Treaties, Agreements and Organizations (1), Starting Up (1) see less

Of course you should open the door.
Look, since I’m on linked in, I visited 5 people I knew on Linkedin and I ordered my plane tickets through the site of one of them. I’m exchanging data, ideas, feelings and point of view by skype, telephone etc with at least 50 people, so yes, networking is a real opportunity and yes, you should open the door!

David

Gordon Whyte

Chief Operations Officer (4300+)MyLink500.com

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Organizational Development (2)… see more, Business Development (1), Lead Generation (1), Labor Relations (1), Inventory Management (1), Starting Up (1) see less

“Why You Should Be Networking” – Business and Pleasure?

The master in the art of living makes little distinction between his work and his play, his labor and his leisure, his mind and his body, his information and his recreation, his love and his religion. He hardly knows which is which. He simply pursues his vision of excellence at whatever he does, leaving others to decide whether he is working or playing. To him he’s always doing both.
-James A. Michener.

Benn Fleming

Director, Seed Skills Pty Ltd

see all my answers

Stepping out of government roles into private industry has been a revelation in terms of learning about my own networking abilities and the context of the relationships I have had in the past and those that I am developing now!

Koshy SAMUEL, MBA Strathclyde Business School, UK

SCHLUMBERGER BUSINESS SUPPORT MANAGER / HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER WITH IT/TELECOM, OIL&GAS BUSINESS (koshysamue@gmail.com)

see all my answers

The easy and fastest way to keep in touch with the world is through networking for business, social and pleasure. This may be good for people who enjoy networking online

It is obvious that big companies and universities are into this concept of Alumni and Networking to share ideas.

Thanks
Koshy

Koshy Samuel
Schlumberger Oilfield Services
C/o Schlumberger Middle East S.A.
P.O. Box 2836
Al-Khobar 31952, Saudi Arabia
Tel: +966 3 8574401 Ext: 595
Cell: +966 56 3318270
Fax: +966 3 8581406

Clarification added 2 months ago:

After all we are social beings and needs to keep in touch to find information, opportunties be it job or business. You don’t develop your network of people over night – it all takes some good efforts and hard work to reach the world.

Yes, I have got many people jobs through networking not even knowing the managers of the other companies.

Clarification added 2 months ago:

Any Unslefish person would like to share and network.

James Driver LION james.driver23lion@gmail.com

Consultant at Call Centre Associates

see all my answers

A couple of months ago I was contact through a string of people by someone outside of my network – asking me to contact. I picked up the phone and had a chat – a few interviews later and I am now working for him at call centre associates – I am extreamly happy here and it’s all due to networking.

Dominic Bignall

Founder & Managing Director: http://www.mvolve.com

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Wireless (1)

It’s a very interesting question and raises some even more interesting debates. We have been developing a specific mobile industry networking/ resource service: http://www.mvolve.com that we are currently launching. We have made the service specific to the mobile industry as our ethos is that our customers will want to maintain separation between their friends/ family and work life. We chose this route after collectively finding that linkedin and other online networking sites were starting to loose some of there immediacy and ‘here and now’ business value. We still use Linkedin avidly but for a different reason, we see Linkedin is evolving into a slightly different form of social rather than business networking…

Simply connecting with someone as they are in a country you have no connections in or because someone has paid to be on “openlink” is generally not going to return any significant value to you as a business resource. Simply having thousands of connections with no real ongoing dialect or value to either party is unlikely to stand the test of time. It’s akin to finding a business card at the bottom of your desk of someone you once met 7 years ago at a conference in Japan when you worked in a different sector!

It’s also similar to past online methodology of completely different websites exchanging links between themselves without gaining any real long term value. As time has passed we all now understand when appropriate sites link to each other and there is a common thread of relevance then the cross traffic is more appropriate to those sites. The same methodology can be applied to online networking, if you want to gain real value out of a group, make it relevant, make it to someone’s advantage, reciprocate and make it specific to the industry or sector!

Lodewijk Hof

Owner, Hof Holding

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Commercial Real Estate (2)… see more, Career Development (1), Internationalization and Localization (1), Contracts (1), Intellectual Property (1), Project Management (1), Personal Real Estate (1), Small Business (1), Using LinkedIn (1) see less

Well I just moved to Amsterdam and I’m expanding my network here. I try to go twice a week out for a evening of network events. This so that I know more people and more people know me. For the rest I use tools like linkedin, skype and msn messenger.

Linkedin is better in 1 thing, it makes it easy to connect with people all over the world and I think that’s great. Why limited yourself to 1 country or city?

Will Court

Strategic Marketing Manager at SGS

see all my answers

I’m a fan of both – but try to use it to strike a healthy work-life balance.
I use Facebook for personal and have just started LinkedIn for business.
My tip is to try to spend equal time on both.

Sanjeev Himachali

HR Professional, Researcher, Motivator, Thinker, Career Coach and Human Relations Counsellor

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Career Development (1)… see more, Compensation and Benefits (1), Staffing and Recruiting (1) see less

Well, I think none of the options (Business or Pleasure) is correct. I network with people to UNDERSTAND THEM as a person. Then, LEARN from them (from their experiences and culture)…it is then that we decide to have business tie-ups or pleasure. For me, I cannot have business tie-ips without understanding a person and without sharing heart-to-heart emotions.

Regards
Sanjeev

Mike DeAngelis

Owner, Michele Productions

see all my answers

I’d like to offer up Harvey “Swim With The Sharks” McKay’s “Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty” in response to this article. It’s billed as “The ONLY Networking Book You’ll Ever Need,” and while that might be a stretch, it’s certainly a worthwhile read. I also recommend “Truth Or Delusion: Busting Networking’s Biggest Myths” by Ivan Misner, PH.D.

The author of the “Why You Should Be Networking” article writes “When that overnetworked twentysomething does decide to do some schmoozing in person, he might struggle to adapt.” I’ve got to tell you that anyone using LinkedIn or any online / “virtual networking” tool exclusively is kidding themselves. LinkedIn is a spoke in the wheel and a vital one at that. The reason people like McKay can get away with writing an entire book on networking is that it really is an art form that one learns. Like everything in life, people are prone to seek out shortcuts, but in networking, there really aren’t any. It’s a give-and-take process.

I attend networking events and I see people lacking in confidence, wanting to reach out to someone and strike up a conversation but seemingly content with assuming the role of wallflower. I see others who “work the room” with varying degrees of effectiveness, handing out several dead trees’ worth of business cards and not even taking a moment to ask the other person “what do YOU do?”

So networking…done well…is essential. Networking done poorly or reluctantly or selfishly is a waste of everyone’s time.

Ravi Lohia

Project Manager at UTStarcom

see all my answers

Hi Steven,

Networking depends upon REQUIREMENT.
People who don’t have time to do networking, busy with existing job and opportunities, don’t need new opportunities through Web Networking Method, they already have their own methods of improving their Network, and do not want to be disturbed by people knocking their door.

Other people who do not fall in category above are using web networking methods.

Regards,
Ravi Lohia

Answers (210)

Patel Shilpa

VP at JPmorgan Chase

see all my answers

The one key to success these days is networking! networking! networking! – Should i say it again.

There are many reasons to network but one that we all use is to find those unposted positions and opportunities. The only way to even know about the opportunities is through neworking.

Also, networking to make friends in your field is a wonderful thing as well.

Shilpa

Carl Jones

Strategic Talent Acquisition Recruitment Retention | STARR

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Project Management (1)

There are tons of responses to your excellent question. Virtual or not — on an EARTH level, NIKE says, “Just Do It!” <smile>

We are all gregarious person, and there are a little or a lot of extrovert-ness in each of us. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) can shed some light on the level of how social we can be at the time. We all go through some personality changes as we all experience different interactions in our lives at different time.

On a UNIVERSE level, we are seeking life in other planets, i.e. Mars, to reach out and to learn. The Apollo 11’s mission to the moon was “the first small step for man, and one giant step for mankind”.

Getting back to the basic, we all network at some level – virtual or not, simply and fundamentally because we are social human beings. Hopefully, our efforts are for goodness.

Regards,
– Carl

Links:

• http://www.space.com/index2.html
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myers-Briggs_Type_Indicator

Kathy Stremmel

President, Hire Search, LLC

see all my answers

Networking provides an avenue of connections that are not attained in any other way. Knowing the right people can get your questions answered faster. Being able to pick up a phone or send out a quick email to someone you may have helped out in the past may be your best route to have your answer, or to finding your perfect candidate.

Vanessa (Laub) Olech

Designer at Trina Turk

see all my answers

I have seen the miracles of networking unfold before my eyes many times. What surprises me is that you never really know what opportunities will come down the pike and from who. Some may come within weeks or even years which is why it is important to try to stay connected with your network. Something may come about one day through a person you would least expect. This is a good reason to always be friendly and helpful to people you meet. You never know who they know!

Dr. Shaun Jamison

Success Coach & Law Professor

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Career Development (1)… see more, Freelancing and Contracting (1), Mentoring (1), Ethics (1), Professional Networking (1), Staffing and Recruiting (1), Employment and Labor Law (1), Events Marketing (1), Public Relations (1), Organizational Development (1), Planning (1), Using LinkedIn (1) see less

I completely agree that networking is for business and pleasure. It doesn’t come easy for me, but I’ve made great friends in addition to it being good for business.

Shaun

Chris Latragna

Experienced Manager and Professional Sales Executive

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Facilities Management (1)… see more, Business Development (1), Supply Chain Management (1), Product Design (1) see less

Steven,

It is absolutely all about who you know. LinkedIn is a great tool for networking in many ways.

Chris Latragna

Links:

• http://www.shoplet.com/furniture/
• http://www.shoplet.com
• http://www.linkedin.com/in/discountofficefurniture

David Lawson

Sr. Account Manager

see all my answers

Its funny when a devout “non-networker” needs something and they come to their networked friends or colleagues to connect them with someone they would likely know if they cared to invest the time.

I guess even that is a form of networking, “knowing a guy who knows a guy” but just taking a look at the profiles of my connections here every now and then has allowed me to refer everything from SMS communications to wiki interfaces for social websites to catering and hopefully the people I know well enough to be connected here have benefitted.

David Couper

Experienced Career Development Coach and Writer

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Career Development (5)… see more, Job Search (3), Resume Writing (3), Mentoring (2), Staffing and Recruiting (2), Freelancing and Contracting (1), Business Development (1), Change Management (1) see less

Interesting topic. I have networked with someone which ended up with my wasting a lot of time on a writing project that in hindsight was never going to go anywhere. And I have networked and got offered one of the best jobs I ever had. I think that after your “first date” you have to evaluate each and every further contacts on the benefits of staying in contact with this person, the opportunities and your own instincts.

Liviu Siteanu

Director of Sales

see all my answers

Definitelly network. Professionally, there is no substitute. Personally… sure. It’s hard not to in some cases.
Though I have to wonder about the “social networking sites”. We keep hearing about people not being hired or even being fired from their jobs because of what they wrote in a personal blog, or on a social networking site. Are people that naive and think that no one is “google-ing” them? I am reminded of a wise man who once said “If someone thinks you’re stupid, don’t open your mouth to prove them right…”

JoAnn Hines

Consumer Product Packaging And Branding Consultant

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Advertising (1)… see more, Direct Marketing (1), Business Development (1), Manufacturing (1), Packaging and Labeling (1), Positioning (1), Using LinkedIn (1) see less

Steven:
I always try to network where possible. I used to do a lot of face to face networking and traveling but due to a variety of reasons most of my networking is virtual now.

I do want to raise the one negative that I find in networking and perhaps that’s why some people choose not to participate. That issue is “reciprocity.”

I used to have an open door policy where I would help anyone that called. The vast majority of people contacting me needed my help. What happened was I was helping everyone else but not helping myself. I was continually surprised by the number of people I never heard from again till they needed help the next time or never even bothered to say thanks.

I became so frustrated I even wrote a few articles about it. “Men’s Network vs. Women’s Network” and “Emily Post She Is Not.” (I’d be happy to send a copy to anyone that asks.) So I started (I know this sounds harsh) but saying I’ll help you if… ( whatever I would like in return.)

This works for me. I don’t feel quite so abused by people taking advantage of my extensive network and it gives me back something for my time in helping them.

I know your mother always told you do good things for others and good things will happen to you in return. But in the real life world it simply isn’t true unless you set the ground rules up front.

JoAnn Hines
Packaging Diva
I package people, products and services.

George Nikanorov, MBA

Marketing/Communications Strategy Specialist

see all my answers

Networking is definitely a piece of the puzzle, but what happens when your networking turns up an opportunity, you take it and you fail? At the end of the day, a LinkedIn profile is only as good as the person and his knowledge behind it.

With that said, I pursue both – expanding my network and expanding my knowledge to truly take advantage of opportunity.

Sandra Voss

Realtor at Michael Saunders & Co and Owner, Sandra Voss, Realtor

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Facilities Management (1)… see more, Economics (1), Compensation and Benefits (1), Internationalization and Localization (1), Commodity Markets (1), Equity Markets (1) see less

Steven,

Any small act of kindness — for me — plants seeds that grow and grow. Additionally — aren’t we living the fruit of the seeds we planted in our lives in the last 10 years…and if they were to benefit others — as it benefited ourselves…we grow. And everyone around us does too! The perfect plan for networking — helping others as we help ourselves. Is that too poetic?
Sandra

G. Abraham Dabela

Financial Services Associate at Prudential Financial

see all my answers

Two books come to mind when I think of Networking:

“Think and Grow Rich” and “Life’s a Campaign.” I am sure there are others, but these have taught me a great deal about the importance of relationships.

Every job I have had has been the result of personal networks, my current business relies upon personal networks.

The backbone of any network is, and always will be, one’s own integrity, honesty, and diligence in their own work.

Up until recently I had never sat down and attempted to list all the people I know in this world. I was intrigued at how the people on my list could benefit through meeting one another through shared interests and occupations. It is fascinating to think that each of these individuals has just such a network and that I fit into subgroups of their networks. On a regular basis I try to think of ways to bridge these networks for the benefit of all concerned. LinkedIn is an excellent tool towards that end.

What can you do, daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly…to be the spark that starts beneficial relationships within your own network? To be recognized as the center of influence that led to new and beneficial relationships is a worthy goal.

I think of networking as the unsung hero of success both personal and professional.

Great question!

abe

Mirela-Simona Oprisan

Experienced Certified Project Manager (PMP)

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Project Management (1)

Hi,

Networking is a really cool thing!! I didn’t believe in it, until I went to a live networking event, where I got the opportunity to meet new people and exchange ideas, and see what others are doing for their business.
So networking is good, and don’t avoid any opportunities.
BUT… don’t do networking only with the business opportunities you might have in mind, it’s a huge mistake to believe that you should be networking only for the business sake. Try to be natural and be yourself, and if an opportunity for business is around, it will find you. But never focus only on business, and accept connections only because it might bring you new business.

My two cents 🙂
Regards,
Mirela

Lacy Tanner (lacy@worldlink-us.com)

Technical Recruiter

see all my answers

I don’t see why anyone in a professional environment wouldn’t want to network to some degree. I am a recruiter, so networking is very important to me. It is discouraging to think when I am trying to find a candidate that someone could possibly get offended or bothered when I introduce myself and ask if they know anyone who fits the job. What if they do know someone and I had the perfect opportunity for their friend/colleague/relative but they will never know about it because this person couldn’t be bothered to do 30 seconds worth of networking? Networking is nothing more than “scratching each other’s back”. You never know when you will need my assistance, and vice versa. I know that I will be glad to give it if I can.

Jon Sheik

Independent Computer Networking Professional

see all my answers

My goals for networking are limited – I tend not to prospect for opportunities, but instead prospect for people to fill opportunities I know exist. The result is that I pass on networking if I haven’t had a prior professional engagement with that person. It’s an expertise issue.

Tim Tymchyshyn

Chief Bottle Washer in the Church of the Evangelistic Unwired and LinkedIn’s Bad boy

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Organizational Development (2)… see more, Ethics (1), Professional Networking (1), Compensation and Benefits (1), Staffing and Recruiting (1), Advertising (1), Writing and Editing (1), Change Management (1), Using LinkedIn (1) see less

I used to belong to a networking breakfast group where I worked the crowd and was able to bring some decent sales to some junior reps, I would line them up to be knocked down by these juniors to give them some experience and confidence. Well my travel days were changing to the point I couldn’t make the meetings anymore and these same junior reps wouldn’t pick it up and started to wonder why these same people never called them back.

I just couldn’t get it through their tiny brains that it is all about the smooze, who but not what you know

Richard Chow

VP at Citigroup/CitiBank

see all my answers

Lots of good answers already to this good question, and it does have legs.

The obvioius would be YES go forth and network. What is important to realize is – network when you don’t really need it and when you do need it, well you know the answer. Lots of folks are too busy with work that they don’t invest the time, I was guilty of that ealier. For instance, when a recruiter calls, talk to them, refer them to someone inside or outside of the company or you can always say to get back to them once you have cleared it with your contact. They, indeed, would remember you. (Disclosure – I am not and have never been a recruiter.) With the introduction of sites like LinkedIn, it is much easiler to stay connected and network.

The flip side is you would have to be selective with some folks and your time, however, if it is not too much work, then make that effort.

The following link may be of interest… The first one promotes the notion of building a “professional” online presence and a networking opportunity in Los Angeles, the second one has numerous blogs on networking topics/ideas.

http://firqby.tumblr.com/
http://blog.suretomeet.com/2007/11/networking_for__entrepreneurs.html

Hope it helps.

Links:

• http://firqby.tumblr.com/
• http://blog.suretomeet.com/2007/11/networking_for__entrepreneurs.html

Mohammad Dawood

CRM consultant & Information Technology Professional

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Using LinkedIn (2)… see more, Job Search (1) see less

Hi Steven,

We are all humans, communication is an essential component of humans existence we need it just like the air, we need to be heard and to be able to express our opinions and to be appreciated for these opinions. This is the core of networking.

Now if you can do that and also benefit of it in you business who would not want to do that.

As many of the answers indicated, and as many of the great thinkers indicated, networking is the door of opportunity, and also the door to wisdom, for when you need an opinion you got a whole community that maybe in old fashioned ways it would have taken years to get their opinions.

Regards,
Mohammad

Heikki Hallantie

Development Expert at Helsinki University of technology

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Change Management (1)

Hi Steven,

Networking is the new way of organizing intellectual work.

Heikki

Pierre DeBois

Experienced Business Professional

see all my answers

I have moved several times in the last 6 years, making it difficult to keep relationships going. So it essential to develop an openness on my part to establish a functional network of professionals. If I relied solely on my past relationships at Ford, I would have missed out on the skills and perspectives I have inherited. One of my Georgia Tech professors once said that networking requires “an assumed friendship” among both parties to work. I really believe in that statement now.

Stephen Felt

Owner, Felt Financial Group

see all my answers

I really like to network because the more connections you have in business will help propel you to the next level. I enjoy the on and off-line networking opportunites. Actually I have built my business on referrals and depend on these networking opportunities.

Joe High

Financial Coach

see all my answers

Steve,
Networking is about building the “net”. It’s about creating “connections,” where maybe you didn’t have them before. Most importantly, it creates the proverbial win/win situation. It is building roots, not just branches. I think many so-called networking events don’t work, because you don’t. You meet someone and it takes a real effort to connect.

I typically will write a personal thank you note. Then I call to have coffee or lunch to learn about the person. I think it’s fun. It is a process of sorting and finding relationships that will enhance their lives and our lives.

Joe High

John Simpson (simpso1j@gmail.com)

Tech Lead and Real Estate Entrepreneur

see all my answers

You should be networking for both business and pleasure. Humans are social creatures. Get out there and network. Interacting with others is the only way to get the most out of life.

–John Simpson–
jsimpson@sbtv.com
http://www.sbtv.com

Andres Tarallo

Programmmer at Universidad ORT and Computer Networking Consultant

see all my answers

Sites like linked in broadens your opotunities to do business, to get new jobs.

It also lets you get in touch with with former colleagues and classmates, relationships maybe lost for yyears

Carol Deckert

Networking Coach :: TopLinked.com Proud with 3500+ connections!

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Sales Techniques (1)

Absolutely – when opportunity knocks, you should definitely answer. Networking does not automatically happen – you have to work at it (that’s why it’s called net-working).

Our parents taught us not to talk to strangers but unfortunately that is not correct. Strangers are simply friends we have yet to meet. Networking provides the opportunity for you to lend a hand (and sometimes lend your name) to someone who is search for a job, a plumber, hairdresser, or whatever. When you are in need of something, you turn to those you know to ask for recommendations. That’s all part of networking. Networking is a critical part of everyone’s life – no matter what field you are in.

My personal belief is that people reject the idea of networking simply because they don’t know what to do or how to do it. Think about your everyday life and look for those opportunties. Just like the example you used, someone in your network – someone you didin’t really know – became connected with someone else in your network and was offered a job. That whole process may have been made easier if you had the opportunity to assist them. I have lots of people in my network that I have no connection with. My goal is to consistently touch base with them, one at a time, get to know who they are, what’s important to them and see if I can be of any assistance. Unfortunately when you ask if you can be of assistance, most people think you are asking them to give you work and they don’t realize you are simply trying to find out what they need and how you can be of help to them.

My suggestion is to grow your network, from every possible way (groups, individuals, etc.) but make it a point to get to know the people. You may not become great friends, but who knows – stranger things have happened. At the very least you are working your “net” and that’s what networking is all about – personal and professional!

Carol Deckert, Networking Coach
Referrals Unlimited Network
http://www.linkedin.com/in/caroldeckert
http://www.runlancaster.com

I welcome connection requests!

Marcos Pinto

Business Development Director [map_pinto@hotmail.com ]

see all my answers

Hi Folks,

Personally I am 100% positive about Should be connected, because I am facing an amazing experience using LinkedtIn as Business COnection Tool. We work within 3 different areas :
<1> Incubatoring Companies that want get in in LATAM markets, mainly in Brazil, with fast and sure results;
<2> Executive Consulting – where we create many Esecutive Seminars that helps companies to grow their business within Sales Channels or Direct Sales staff;
<3> Bridge business between different companies, In-Out Brazil.
Using my current Ntwork @ LinkedtIn I got (believe me guys) over than 50 new business, and helped over than 70 HR & Headhunters companies.

By those resulrts, I am super fan about WHY WE SHOULD BE NETWORKING…

My best wishes for all you, future partners…

Cheers,

M

Srinivas Pallikonda

Application Technical Specialist at IBM India Pvt Ltd

see all my answers

I do networking as part of my job, personal life, friends, information regarding various things which are required in my daily life and of course for fun at times 🙂
Ask a marketing guy as how important networking is….

Human being is a social animal and needs networking as part of basic needs.The more sociable you are … the more you will be into networking.

There are enormous amount of benefits from networking be it on business front or personal. But the thing is we dont realize the way it works in the background all the time.

Jim Constantine

Managing Partner at Global Recruiters Network

see all my answers

The answer is simple just not easy. Networking is critical to every business in every position everywhere. The rub is that if we network with everyone who reaches out we would have little time to do our jobs. It is doggedly competitive, hyper-competitive in todays world both personally and professionally. I never turn down a request to become part of a network or a request for information. As a Search Consultant, I WISH every attempt I made was received with open arms. Not the case, but should be. Ya never know who you will need and when. Listen, there is enough buisness out there for everyone and, as a member of this “staffing” community, I welcome new contacts and support everyone I meet until they give me a reason not to. And that is usually very obvious very quickly. Takes up too much time trying to figure out the people with less than honorable intentions and if one bad contact can hurt my practice that badly, it is more an indictment of my practice and pipeline than of them. The Good of networking far outweighs the bad.

Answers (210)

Dayna Christensen (LION)

HR Administrator at The Schwan Food Company (dayna.christensen@schwans.com)

see all my answers

Yes! I think networking is vital, and almost a necessity if a person wants to move forward or even up.

Sergei, thank you for sharing the articles. I read both of them. I have to say I was a little skeptical of the second one, “Why you should stop networking”, until I read it. It really suggesting to not over populating your contacts just for the numbers, but instead to focus on ones that you can use and grow with. I struggle at this. My boss made me and my co-workers aware of LinkedIn when he came on board. It truly has been fun and interesting, but I struggle with making the personal connections, or the right connections to build that circle the second article spoke about. Is it something that can be achieved virtually, without being face to face? If so how do you go about it without being perceived as aggressive?

Dayna

Seema Rafay

President, MBA. HR, OD, Talent Management /Employee Performance Management company

see all my answers

When I started out with my own Talent Management consulting practice, I noticed that along with the freedom of planning, developing, and executing my business goals independently (read: without corporate red tape), came the side effect of invariably working in solitude. So I looked to networking as an equal split of providing that social aspect of ‘coworkers’ that self employment lacks with a business aspect of building a true network of opportunities. The line is difficult to draw, because social can become business and business partners can become friends. Some groups benefit directly while others indirectly, so an ongoing evaluation is necessary.

The key to networking is to not get swamped by too many network groups, rather work target groups where other members either share similar client caliber or understand your needs. In physical network settings, my goal is to really listen to other members’ needs rather than be eager to express mine. As a result, I am more likely the initiater in OFFERING and GIVING leads before I expect to receive any. This has had an astounding effect in getting noticed, as there’s a sense of reciprocity that compels the receiver to return the favor. So yes it’s a selfish end but with a totally unselfish means.

Key factors that work for me:

Be selective of network groups (professional associations, business, social, etc.)
Listening to others’ needs (have empathy)
Look in your network to offer others leads
Patience
Tenacity (keep at it)
Reciprocity (it’s not all about YOU)

Shawn Slevin

HR and Human Capital Solutions Provider; Chair Swim Strong Foundation

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Using LinkedIn (2)

Hi Steven
Personally, I am a natural networker and was doing so as far back as I can remember….from collaborating with other students on projects to reaching out to colleagues in work when starting projects. Afterall, the product offering is much richer when many bright minds contribute to it. Now that I am in my own business that continues. It takes on a more critical aspect in that most of my work is generated in this way. Go figure!!

best
Shawn

Shalini Mukherjee

Student at University of New South Wales

see all my answers

Hey Steven,
WOW haven’t you got everyone going! Considering this is a networking site I’d like to think that the people here want to network even if they might not always have the time 🙂
In response to Keith Merkely, that quote is by Zig Ziglar- “You can have everything in life that you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want.”
And I think that’s what networking and success is all about
Cheers

April Brunelle

Web designer / Voice Talent at JuneBug Multimedia

see all my answers

I’ve read many great answers to this question and I can’t help but simply answer it in this way. Networking isn’t just about smoozing or talking with people just to get yourself business. It’s about connecting with others and helping them succeed. By doing this you help yourself succeed as well.

Networking if done correctly isn’t about what you get out of it yourself but what you can do for others.

Les Blatt

New Media and Multimedia Strategist

see all my answers

Every job that I ever had in the course of my career was gained through what we now call networking. Every one. LinkedIn and similar sites have made networking that much easier and more effective. Social networking is also becoming critical for marketers, as word-of-mouth (or word-of-computer) is enormously important to would-be buyers and sellers. Why would anyone NOT want to be a part of it?

Melissa Benedetti, SPHR

Human Resources and Staffing Professional, SPHR

see all my answers

I agree wholeheardtedly, always answer the door!

I like the email you shared as well. Its nice when you receive a thank you like that. With technology, its a REALLY small world.

On this topic, I just listed to a webinar on networking via LinkedIn and other such sites yesterday. The leader of the talk, Scott Allen, offered up a lot of great information on networking in general as well as using LinkedIn to do so. He has a blog, if you are interested you can check it out at : http://LinkedIntelligence.com

Links:

• http://LinkedIntelligence.com

Daniele Olivarez Cunningham

Director of Marketing

see all my answers

Old sayings may seem tired but nevertheless they’re true. It’s not so much about what you know but WHO you know. I am a firm believer in building bridges because even though I may never need them I think it’s far better to have them in place just in case. I view every person I meet as an opportunity to expand my network both personally and professionally. In this day and age the lines between the two are becoming less distinct.

Bob Garrett .:. bobcgarrett@gmail.com

Looking for full/part time IT management or Sales opportunities .: Open Networker

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Professional Networking (1)… see more, Change Management (1), Using LinkedIn (1) see less

Is there any other reason?

Raffaella Ercolano Palladini

Project Manager at Vodafone Spain

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Personnel Policies (1)

Both, business and pleasure. Be Networking, from any point of view, allows to keep going. To be in what happens around us. To know more and more. To learn more and more. To teach more and more. To have a wide range of opportunities.

Be Networking, allows you to arrive to everything you would like and many times you cannot reach or you would not have time or enough space to know.

It is a brilliant tool to be a day, to know exceptional people with who difficultly would cross in the life.

It is to leave our 4 walls that it is our environment. It is to live more than what our destination says.

Regards, Raffaella

Laura Callow

Senior Search Analyst

see all my answers

Basic personal marketing… Meet, Explore, Engage, Persuade, Relax, Persuade, Convince, Relax, Detail Swap, Persuade, Convince, Promise, — timelapse– Contact, and back to Explore, or Consolidate, or Final Sell…

Depends on why you’re networking. What you want to gain, and what you want them to perceive they’ve gained.

Obviously there are variables you have take into account and deal with ad hoc, but it’s usually not possible to network efficiently with ‘first-meets’ unless you’re Branson without some social interaction. Take your target’s beliefs and culture into consideration – or you’re heading for a divorce before you even got engaged 🙂

Nicholas Searles

Director of Sales at Holiday Inn Fort Lee, NJ

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Ethics (1)

Steven,
I work for a hotel in NJ, right outside NYC. I talk to people from all over the world that are comng to my area for business or pleasure. If I didn’t network on this type of forum I’d fire myself!
There are many opportunities and almost not enough time in the day to explore them. My standard answer is “ya never know”.

Nicholas Searles – Director of Sales
Holiday Inn Fort Lee
“Your Gateway to New York City”
Work: 201-944-5000 Ext 349

Fax: 201-944-7264

http://www.linkedin.com/in/nicksearles

Toni Binci

═════════════════ ●●Talent at career start ☼ ●●jobness@gmail.com /LION ●●Want my sig? Read profile!

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Enterprise Software (3)… see more, Software Development (2), Project Management (1), Using LinkedIn (1) see less

I defenitely vote for Both. Doing a business with pleasure, and have pleasure by enhancing the business.

— Toni

Jack McVickar

Senior IT (Systems) Manager at Maritz

see all my answers

Excellent question and the responses are terrific. I am relatively fresh into active networking, once I realized how important it was to reach out to others to connect.
I think the sites like LinkedIn offer a great visual approach that makes it easier to understand and appreciate the network that you do have, and strive to grow that network.
While I certainly network for my own professional and personal gain, I find no greater satisfaction in knowing that my networking has benefited someone else in making that right connection or finding the right opportunity.

Diane Dutton

Independent Management Consulting Professional

see all my answers

As you can see by so many responses – networking is the way! I believe we are preaching to the choir here because we are here, we believe in networking.

I am not much on social networking because so much time is necessary for networking to get your business message out in mass. As an author we are taught about publicity instead of advertising, saves money and gives much needed exposure. Networking through this new meduim is part of the publicity we work for. There is a fine line between selling yourself and networking. Be sure to come from integrity and provide some benefit, before you ask for the sale!

Great post subject!

From the author of ‘A Woman’s Ladder To Success” on Amazon.com or http://www.businesswomenspeak.com (I had to sell too!).

Celebrate Success!
Diane Dutton

Brian Johns

Workers’ Compensation Expert , martial arts instructor

see all my answers

I absolutely believe in the value of networking; without it I would not have gotten the job at the Industrial Commission of Ohio (in Columbus, Ohio), where I worked for 17 years. In June of this year, I moved from Columbus to Toronto, Canada for family reasons. I started with zero professional or social networks but am slowly building them up. It’s tough going. One of the mistakes that I made, while working for the Industrial Commission, is that I let my networking skills rust. Networking does not come naturally to me but I know that it is vital for me in my current job search. I vow that I will become much more active in networking here in Toronto than I was in Columbus and am looking forward to the adventure !

Sincerely,
Brian E. Johns

— Daryl Watkins —

Sales Manager at Sprint Nextel

see all my answers

I try to retain a person’s information as often as possible when I sense that there is any value to that relationship, on either side. LinkedIn has given me yet another avenue to track and cultivate those relationships.

Lisa Cotter Metwaly

Chief Daymaker and Connector at The Q Kindness Cafe in downtown St. Paul

see all my answers

It’s not who you know, it’s who knows you. The more people that know you and your integrity the more apt that people will want to do business with you. Networking is not about collecting names it’s about building relationships of trust. When people know what you stand for and who you stick up for, people will stick up and stand up for you. The sticky factor is what will make your net work.

Links:

• http://http//:www.qkindness.com

Fred Beisser

Senior Financial Executive, CPA [LION 2,400+] [Contact: frebei at denverlink.com] MyLink500.com TopLinked.com

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Corporate Governance (2)… see more, Commercial Real Estate (1), Career Development (1), Government Services (1), Public Relations (1), Organizational Development (1), Starting Up (1), Using LinkedIn (1) see less

Two reasons:

Business. As Harvey MacKay says….”Dig Your Well Before you’re Thirsty.” In other words, build that network of business contacts now so that when you happen to be in a position to need it, it is already there and waiting.

And from a personal pleasure perspective. Just through building a contact network in any manner you will meet virtually or in person interesting personalities who have something in common with you that also results in a personal mental connection. Maybe even begin a face-to-face personal relationship that is fun and rewarding.

So, why not network?

Robert Fornal

Battalion Applications Trainer at US Army

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Using LinkedIn (143)… see more, Career Development (7), Customer Service (4), Web Development (4), Education and Schools (2), Freelancing and Contracting (2), Ethics (2), Professional Networking (2), Internet Marketing (2), Organizational Development (2), Planning (2), Engineering (2), Small Business (2), Blogging (2), Software Development (2), Facilities Management (1), Job Search (1), Resume Writing (1), Corporate Debt (1), Charity and Non-Profit (1), Staffing and Recruiting (1), Treaties, Agreements and Organizations (1), Employment and Labor Law (1), Advertising (1), Graphic Design (1), Customer Relationship Management (1), Sales Techniques (1), Writing and Editing (1), Change Management (1), Manufacturing (1), Retirement and Estate Planning (1), Industrial Design (1), Product Design (1), E-Commerce (1), Enterprise Software (1), Computers and Software (1), Databases (1), Information Storage (1), Telecommunications (1) see less

I network as a way to help others … with this simple focus, I have in turn helped my own career …

David Harris

President, Harris Consulting Group LLC

see all my answers

I agree with Charles Buck’s response: “Success in business is 1/3 smarts, 1/3 work, and 1/3 opportunity.” Success in business depends on WHAT you know, WHO you know, and what you DO! Years ago I heard a guy say that if you weren’t working on your business, it was dying: your business lived or died depending on what you did everyday. I think that’s true of marriage, friendship, and finances, too! Did anyone get marriage, have a child, or start an MBA expecting to be able to coast through??

Joey Rahimi

Managing Director, BrandingBrand.com

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Internet Marketing (1)

I’ve always hated “networking” functions … a place where a bunch of sales professionals meet up for the sole purpose of networking. I tried that right out of college and realized that most people were there were all talk, no action.

I believe you should be networking at all times in a “non-networking atmosphere” and you should be making a big splash when networking.

By non-networking atmosphere, I mean, everyday life.
– the person next to you on a plane
– the guy next to you at the urinal

Big splash networking
– create a website promoting events that occur and keep building your email list and notifying them
– volunteer at noble organizations
– give speeches at local colleges and high schools about a topic you are an expert at

Doing these things brings the network to you … it’s less of the bottom feeder approach.

The only place I would “network” is somewhere where I am validated.
– an alumni event
– an exclusive gathering (invite only)
– a wedding
– a funeral

Finally, there’s social networks, like linkedin and facebook. Don’t go adding strangers you don’t know, but always add ones you just met live, and reccomend them if you can.

The real key to networking is to give. If you give, you shall receive.

Links:

• http://www.brandingbrand.com

Vassilis N. Siakos [v.siakos@alumni.alba.edu.gr][LION]

Principal Consultant at Hay Group

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Organizational Development (2)… see more, Professional Networking (1), Internationalization and Localization (1), Business Development (1) see less

…because before the Opportunity knocks, I should have a solid Door (and a Door-Bell).

Gingle Bells to EVERYBODY,

Vassilis N. Siakos

PS Feel free to connect directly, thank you.

Links:

• http://www.linkedin.com/in/vassilissiakos

Vincent Le Floc’h

Brand Manager & Property Developer

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Ethics (1)… see more, Market Research and Definition (1) see less

Steven,

I am well known among my friends to be a good networker. I have always done it without doing it in purpose. it got me both my current jobs.
The first one, I met somebody while studying for an MBA and he mentioned an opening in his organisation and here I am. For the second, I was networking with an old colleague I hadn’t seen for 18 to 24 months and she mentioned that she had purchased few houses. 2 years don the line, she manages the properties that I have bought with her advise.
I would recommend it to anybody, but if it feels like hard work it will not work. People have to feel your sincerity or it is only an interested gesture.

Elena Bosio (International Marketing)

Corporate Marketing Executive – TopLinked.com

see all my answers

I could not agree more with all of you about networking! I consider myself a social person and that added to my professional work have resulted in long lasting and loyal relationships with customers, partners and friends. Networking either by means like Linkedin or the most old fashioned, always pays off throughout the years.

And BTW, I invite all of you who posted the 174 answers to join my network. Please send me an invitation and I will for sure accept it. Let’s network!!!
And to all of you have a wonderful New Year 2008!

Best regards,
Elena Bosio

Ray . Casey

Owner at Arestar (R*), LLC – Innovative Home and Marine Automation Solutions

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Business Development (1)… see more, Enterprise Software (1) see less

I have not read the long list of answers yet and do not envy you having to rate each answer 🙂 LOL. But I wanted to add that TRACKING connections as an aggregate is more beneficial than just having the large numbers of connections, thus my argument for lots of connections but with a theme vs. random connections (open invites). If you actively watch the activities of a large number, and then filter down (ala facebook) then you really can derive some really useful information both in business and socially. It is the activities of the many from which you may derive truly useful information vs. staying closely coupled to the few (lack of variety and deviation – as we all know that is the interesting information not the predictable ). There are crossovers depending upon what you want to get out the connection, but to the point about quantity vs. quality, i like tracking greater numbers as more interesting things are usually discovered in a large pool of data vs. constructing patterns from a smaller universe… just my two cents and experience to date…

Luanne Mayorga

Coordinator, Business Counseling at College of DuPage

see all my answers

I strongly believe in networking. It’s great to know first-hand of someone that you can refer to a friend or business associate. There are so many scams and rip-offs out there that I would much rather take someone’s recommendation than to cold-call a company and/or sales rep for an important task.

I also love staying in touch with as many people from my past experiences as possible. It’s great to see how they are progressing and, you never know if your paths will cross again in the future. If I know of someone in a particular field, they will certainly be my first call when working on a business deal.

Alex Rotenberg

Global Distribution Change Manager at Syngenta AG

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Professional Networking (2)

If 2 people can get double the job done leading to 1+1=3, imagine the potential of a properly operating network! That in itself should motivate anyone to collaborate with others.

LI is one way to enable collaboration to meet certain business targets whilst having fun. But only if this collaboration is in line with ones objectives…

Brice Hazelwood

Financial Advisor at Country Insurance & Financial Services

see all my answers

I have been on Linkedin for a bit but have never finalized my profile until now. I am in Ellisville, MO providing insurance & financial services (home, auto, life, retirement planning, etc….) and agree networking has been key to my success. I primarily market on the internet and meet clients locally and am excited to jump into this mix on this site.

Happy Holidays everyone!

Brice Hazelwood
Country Financial
636-734-1310

Iman El-Hariry

Group Director at GSK

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Mentoring (1)

First, I agree with many great answers posted already and I feel I relate to most of these
Without not trying to sound philsophical, however, I think there is another dimension to networking. I truly find it fascinating understanding and learning about different cultures from people’s perspectives. More important as we grow older, we grow wiser and more epxerienced. This doesn’t come from just reading, travelling or watching media, it comes from interacting with people.
thanks
iman

Answers (210)

Mark Mikelat

Speaker, Trainer and Coach – BuildingAspirations.com

see all my answers

I’m HUGE fan of networking! I like it so much that I wrote a book about it: http://www.buildingaspirations.com/50tipsnetworking.html.

It is ironic. Business leaders know the value of networking, but seldom do they do it well.

Quick TIPS:

Networking is about GIVING, not just getting!
BE positive, always, about everything that you say.
BE focused. People can’t help you and you can’t help people if goals are vague

I provide workshops and seminars based on my book. If your workplace or organization could some training, please let me know!

Links:

• http://www.buildingaspirations.com/50tipsnetworking.html

Tom H. C. Anderson

Classically trained — But radically changed –Market Insights Professional. Managing Partner Anderson Analytics, LLC

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Career Development (1)

At first it was more business, but now it’s really a pleasure. I enjoy meeting new people and learning from them.

Connie Terwilliger

Voiceover Talent and Media Production Consultant

see all my answers

Networking has many faces. The new structured networking – virtual networking sites such as LinkedIn. The new casual networking – message boards and ListServs. The old structured networking – face-to-face groups that connect people who have like interests. And the more casual networking that occurs in day-to-day activities.

Each has its positive and negative attributes and what works for some people won’t with others. And each organized networking group has its own personality.

But the bottom line is that used correctly networking works – maybe not tomorrow, but down the road. And the biggest side effect to good networking is the friendships that grow. I’ve been a member of MCA-I (formerly known as ITVA) since 1987. MCA-I is focused on the professional development of its members, but networking is an inevitible by product. In that time, I have met hundreds of other media communication professionals who I know I can call on to both help me out with a project or who know they can call me.

More recently, my participation on various voiceover message boards is paying off more on the friendship side than the business side, but despite the virtual nature of the medium, these are real friendships…and have in fact led to real business relationships as well.

Be careful not to confuse Networking with Marketing and/or Sales. I’ve attached a link to an article about Networking by fellow MCA-I member and friend, Phil Stella.

Links:

• http://www.mca-i.org
• http://www.mca-i.org/en/art/?28

Scott Nilsen

Voice Talent, Voiceover Artist, Voiceover Actor

see all my answers

I had never thought of myself as being very good at networking, but it turns out it’s very easy. I was first invited to LinkedIn by someone I knew from college, and realized it started with people I already knew.
Through LinkedIn, I’ve been to a face-to-face group meeting with members in the area, and it was great! Nice way to meet new people, shake some hands, and see what happens.

Bill Saleebey

Regional Manager, Corporate Relocations at American Relocation & Logistics , Adjunct Professor at University of Phoenix

see all my answers

Networking is usually a combination of social and business, and the two interconnect. Sometimes it begins in a business context. In other cases the relationship begins socially, and then progresses to business. You never know who you might be talking to, or who their connections are. Networking gets easier and is more fun when you know some people in the group, who then can introduce you to others, and so on… But the idea of just bursting into business is wrongheaded, especially in today’s business climate, at least in Los Angeles. Cross-networking (different formats, trade groups, etc.) is excellent, and the more people who see you and like you, the better.

All Best and Happy New Year to all
Bill Saleebey, Ph.D.

Agnieszka Lichanska

Lecturer at University of Queensland

see all my answers

Hi Steve,

I definitely think we network for both business and pleasure. I have been trying to explain to undergraduate students why networking is so important for them while they study so they should take every opportunity to meet new people and get themselves out there into the wide world. People only know you if they see you and if you want a dream job or to meet good buddies you have to know them somehow. I still have not found a formula to convince the students but I might use this article to push the point. A lot of people see things only short term but the key is to see into the future and be alert. I try to meet and know as many people personally as I can but you cannot possibly meet everyone and even your friends are often half way across the world.
I believe in opening the door when an opportunity knocks and while I had ups and downs through meeting people. Some were great and we will remain friends for life even though it was just business meeting in the first place. Others were selfish people not worth knowing and I hope that they will get what they deserve. But that is no reason to not network, we need to keep open minds and I still do not pass on the networking opportunity.

Agnieszka

Matt Tyler

Supervising Software Engineer at Cardinal Health

see all my answers

A friend of mine once said to me: “You have to exercise your relationships.” I realized then that it was like exercise and required a regimen of skills and effort. For many people, especially in homeostasis, the idea is unappealing. It is not until we need the resources of “weak tied” associates that we exercise our networks for some desired result.

For the dymanic people (those not seeking absolute homeostasis), networking is a powerful tool. The truly successful dynamic personality also understands the balance between continuous opportunity seeking and achieving stability. Stability is not simply a means that can be counted on daily. It can also be a solid network of relationships that provides you with support in times of need.

Cindy Kraft

The CFO-Coach

see all my answers

Unfortunately, most people don’t network until they need to and then networking is usually ineffective so it becomes easy to quit doing what isn’t working … immediately. The time to cultivate a network is before you need it so you can give to others and build trusting relationships before you need to ask them for their help.

I find two primary challenges facing my clients. First, they are so busy working in their jobs that they don’t have time or energy to devote to networking. And, they are lulled into a false sense of security (I have a job) and therefore avoid what they don’t feel comfortable doing.

The greater false sense of security lies in the fact that most senior finance executives will be in a position on average three years. Since this is a researched fact, the best time to begin building a network is before you find yourself on the street and in need of one.

Links:

• http://www.cfo-coach.com

Jerry Choate

Business Development Director at BioMed Capital, LLC

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Career Development (1)

Netweaving or Networking? You may enjoy “The Heart and Art of Netweaving” by Robert Littell. A new spin on networking at a higher level. Arthur Blank (founder of Home Depot and owner of Falcons) stated that he had been “doing this all my life, just without a good word for it.”

Matt Genovese

Social network builder in Austin, Texas; Hardware verification engineer, software consultant.

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Using LinkedIn (7)… see more, Professional Networking (1), Mergers and Acquisitions (1), Government Policy (1), Staffing and Recruiting (1), Viral Marketing (1), Business Development (1), Public Relations (1), Planning (1), Starting Up (1), Wireless (1) see less

Have enough answers already? Are you writing a book? 😉

Matt

Sunil Pokharel

sales and marketing officer at Javra software

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Customs, Tariffs and Taxes (1)

For the luck to come across us, we need to make a place or make a value for the luck to take place. We are networking and making a place for the luck or opportunity to knock us.
Networking provides us to interact with unknown and convert them to known, share business ideas like we are doing in linkedin.
I will feel it my grateness if i am able to convert those unknown to a known ones.
Like the above email you received from somebody unknown is really touchy to you which made him and you as well feel good.

Clarification added 12 days ago:

We can get the ultimate satisfaction by expressing our views and satisfying others.This is what specially linkedin provides. Business interactions and professionals satisfactions.

Nabeel Malik

General Manager at Axiom Private Limited

see all my answers

Well I believe that pleasure is directly related to stability and mental peace which can be achived if your business is going good. So I believe that Business & Pleasure is directly proportional.

Atif I. Malik

Entrepreneur, Visionary, Strategist, Turnaround Consultant

see all my answers

Any agenda/ information can have much better penetration and ripple effects, If one could have access to relevant interest groups and more over know most effective means to spread. Networking is one of most suited option.

Eugene Rembor, MBA

CEO of Rembor & Partners Ltd. Interim, turnaround and strategic solutions.

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Staffing and Recruiting (3)… see more, Using LinkedIn (3), Mentoring (2), Ethics (2), Supply Chain Management (2), Purchasing (1), Education and Schools (1), Career Development (1), Freelancing and Contracting (1), Job Search (1), Resume Writing (1), Corporate Law (1), Business Development (1), Graphic Design (1), Public Relations (1), Corporate Governance (1), Change Management (1), Organizational Development (1), Project Management (1), Market Research and Definition (1) see less

When I was networking, I suffered from low bsuiness for 18 months. The moment I stopped networking and spend time with my clients, business went through the roof and within 1 year I made more money than during all the 25 years before.

Networking is dangerous waste of time, invented by the networking industry who wants to make you believe that the hard work of selling can be replaced by the oh-so-comforatble networking where through magical computer use others will do your work for you and give you business.

Wake up man!

Links:

• http://www.remborpartners.com

Jay Nwachu

Recruiting/Personnel Coordinator at The Choice Program

see all my answers

I am a big believer in Robin Dunbar’s Magic/Rule of 150….so why not make the best of what we were blessed with.

Links:

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dunbar%27s_number

Kresimir Profaca

Entrepreneur, Wireless, Internet

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Computers and Software (1)… see more, Telecommunications (1) see less

Whether it’s business or pleasure, having a bigger network simply means the opportunity to learn more. More people, more ideas, more opportunities.
Investing in a network is always a great benefit, just to be able to help is in itself rewarding.
One of the best articles on networking I read is: http://www.careerjournal.com/columnists/careeredge/20040503-moses.html (this article was given to us in INSEAD MBA program class „Power and politics“ by professor Fabrizio Castellucci, in spring 2004).

Links:

• http://www.careerjournal.com/columnists/careeredge/20040503-moses.html

Jean-François Berthet

B to E Project Manager at Nissan Europe

see all my answers

Best article ever about the art of networking :
http://www.inc.com/magazine/20030101/25049.html

A long but interesting read.

Links:

• http://www.inc.com/magazine/20030101/25049.html

Tim Bosworth, Licensed PA Realtor

COLDWELL BANKER REALTY CORP. ASSOCIATES, 1631 LOCUST STREET, PHILADELPHIA, PA, 19103

see all my answers

My business is a referral business. It’s relationships. The number of people I know is the leading indicator of the growth and success of my business. I prefer the term “connecting” to “networking.”

Too many people see “networking” as vertical cold calling. They go to an “event” give way X number of cards and get X number of others and say, “Well, that was a waste of time; I didn’t get any business out of that.” After you get the cards, that’s when the work starts. Often people say, “I don’t have time to get together with you, I have too much work to do.” Actually, the getting together is my work. If I go to a concert, strike up a conversation with someone, turns out they’re looking for a $500,000 house and I find one for them, is that work?

Yes, if establishing and building relationships is your business.

Louise M. Kidney

Strategic Business Consultant

see all my answers

Hi Steve,

I’ve been using LinkedIn for a couple of years now. Monitoring it’s progress and trying to understanding how individuals are utilizing this web-application. I’m a networker but I’ve realized I may be slightly different on my approach to networking. After reading the pages and pages of responses you received. I think you’re question may have produced the most answered question that LinkedIn has received yet. This would have to be verified with LinkedIn… just an observation.

I’m a watcher of networkers both In person and on the net. I find watching whom’s networking with whom, when and how often provides me with valuable insite as to who I want to network with and who I do not. Since I love watching, listening and then acting. The reason I network professionally is for “profit”. The reason I work is for my family. However, every once in a while I find that individuals I have networked with have managed to become one of my “inner circle of friends”. Networking is an event. An art. A response — a need — to be connected. Individuals come and individuals go in one’s career — some individuals you liked — some you never did — some you never thought of again. But, networking is an important part of man kinds need to be connected. To be part of. To participate.

I think that you’re question was so well timed and so well received by many individuals — that we all learned “something about networking” — good on you!

Links:

• http://connections.thepodcastnetwork.com

Sinnary Sam [LION]

Founder & CEO

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Starting Up (1)… see more, Using LinkedIn (1) see less

You hear it time and time again: It’s who you know, not what you know.

While I don’t believe that a well individual should live a life of absolute ignorance, knowing the right people sure does help.

If I had networked more before becoming independent (business owner and sales), I would have come across many opportunities and learned so much from people that would have helped me profoundly on my road to success.

I think many people shy away from networking because there are too many people out there that see networking as a sales opportunity and their pursuit of a sale using aggressive networking tactics give the real purpose of “networking” a bad reputation.

Due to this trend, I have sought out different avenues for networking and have even implemented processes in my organization that eliminate this issue.

Links:

• http://www.forenetworking.com
• http://www.hbsaoc.org
• http://www.abaoc.org

S Brockeim (brockeim@yahoo.com)

Humorist at Brockeim.com

see all my answers

Yes, and no. I avoid ‘networking opportunities’ in the traditional sense. The top leaders are not attending these. They are living life. So, in tune with that, I live life, but am aware that where I am, there are people.

Organically, this works. For all the ‘networking events’ I have attended, working the room, passing out business cards, I make connections, but few as viable and strong as those I meet serendipitously.

One reason this works is because I am in my element. Hobbies, strong interests, favorite activities… all that. There is no agenda.

As such, I have made great contacts in coffeeshops I enjoy (I often write about coffee and coffee culture), where I workout, and at nonprofit events I support.

For example, at a Christmas party thrown by a friend of a group I belong to… I met one of my city’s top creative leaders. I did not seek him out, and we didn’t talk business, but now, I can move forward.

Too much emphassi these days is on creating connection, while, at the same time, forgetting we already have more connections than we realize.

Links:

• http://brockeim.com
• http://brockeim-nonsense.blogspot.com/

Alexandre Oliveira

Senior System Analyst at Metrics Sistemas de Informação

see all my answers

Well… I think that doesn’t matter how much you’re good and efficient (and your skills) if you don’t let the right person know about it…

A coin deep in a river has no value…

We have to expose ourselves, but I think We have to do that for people who can help us to improve our careers…

Hugs!

Vasco Phillip de Sousa

Visual Storyteller: Screenwriter, Designer, Dramatic Translator

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Starting Up (3)… see more, Education and Schools (2), Career Development (2), Professional Networking (2), Offshoring and Outsourcing (2), Using LinkedIn (2), Ethics (1), Government Policy (1), Personnel Policies (1), Organizational Development (1), Market Research and Definition (1), Franchising (1), Web Development (1) see less

Hello Mr Burda,
I guess that’s alright, but what if in the job interview Rick is asked about you? or if you are asked by the prospective employer to give a reference on Rick?

I try to at least know where I networked with the people from, and a bit about each person I’m connected too. Otherwise, my network will end up like the Borat page on myspace.

I don’t really want to add a bunch of criminals to my network, or fictional characters, so that’s why I don’t network much.

However I network a lot more than many of my contacts (who aren’t on any networking site) do. They feel, that having a steady job in what they want to do (academic, hairdresser, or whatever) in the town they want to be in, that it won’t really help their careers.

There is also a privacy concern amoung some of my contacts. And many feel it’s a waste of time (a child’s game).

Many UK academics seem to think it’s immoral to get a job through who you know. They equate networking with nepotism.

And people in military, police, nursing, etc also don’t want to join networks as much as entrepreneurs or recruiters or even teachers might. (at least, from the people I know)

My contacts in the non-profit sector seem to prefer the frivilous social networking sites (where they can use silly icons and pretend names and act like Borat) to proper networking. For them networking is a way of keeping in touch, mailing many people at once, and venting viewpoints.

Facebook is a great way to get back in touch with my old classmates. I don’t have to contact them, they recognise me through their own contacts.

LinkedIn is a bit more difficult to find contacts through, and it is annoying that John Doe wants to connect and doesn’t tell me whether he’s the John Doe who used to put people’s shoes in the toilet in high school, or the John Doe who helped me get my first job, or some John Doe who I’ve never met and just liked my profile. (and if so, what did he like about my profile?)

Crystal N Woods

Intelligence Analyst at NSW Police

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Business Analytics (2)… see more, Facilities Management (1), Occupational Training (1), Risk Management (1), Planning (1), Enterprise Software (1) see less

You do realise, of course, that posting this question in a networking forum you’re not likely to get many answers from the people who don’t network?

I saw one, and I was surprised he was actively participating in this if, as he said, he doesn’t do it any more.

Monica Gomez-Mirfakhraie

Accounting & Finance Recruiter

see all my answers

Its is good to know people who know people.

Ehab Elagaty

►Australia’s Most Connected SAP Professional ►SAP HR Consultant ►TopLinked.com, LION, 3.800+►ehab4sap@gmail.com

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Using LinkedIn (1)

Although it has been taking up some time from me to network but I have been enjoying doing so by knowing the fact that I can be a link between a problem and a solution or between 2 that could benefit from getting connected together including myself.

There are so many people that I have met, came to know or connected with that I wouldn’t have had a chance to do so if it wasn’t for networking.

I am putting together a page with links to sites / blogs / forums that focus on benefits of using LinkedIn and how to expand your network.

Below is the link for that site as well as for another question i posted of anyone knows of any other good links i could include

Ehab

Dig the well before you get thirsty : )

Links:

• http://www.erpsystems.ws/linkedin
• http://www.linkedin.com/answers/using-linkedIn/ULI/156008-3431980?browseIdx…

Joshua Lucas

Computer Systems Administrator at Pacific Union College

see all my answers

Networking is the wave of the future, not to network is like passing on something great. The more people you know increases the chance of something good happening. I myself have passed on a good networking opportunity and have regretted it. As for the bad and the good, there is nothing wrong with networking, It just a means to help you come in contact with people you would other wise not have met. In my mind networking and applications like this one are a God send.

Salik Rafiq

Independent Information Technology and Services Professional

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Purchasing (1)… see more, Computers and Software (1) see less

Yes network as much as you can. Networking has resulted in me obtaining three permanent positions (without an interview) and three contracts, again without an interview.

Once you build a reputation amongst your collegues and friends, they will recommend you for jobs and quite often it will mean getting a job that wasn’t advertised and you’re the only candidate!

For a freelancer like myself its asolutely critical to network. I won’t find work otherwise.

Thomas N. Ott, P.E., M.B.A.

Civil Department Manager

see all my answers

I approach networking as a way to building long term relationships. I’m a big believer in networking but not in “networking with anything that moves.” I’ve found that by taking the time to build a high quality network is a lot better, and gives you more of an impact, than just exchanging business cards with everyone you meet at XYZ convention.

I can tell you networking does work and is very important. I found my last two positions through my established network.

Read Full Post »

Public Questions and Answers about this subject posted on LinkedIn (Public Blog on LinkedIn)

 

What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

The “Meta” Internet: As everyday real life contact becomes less necessary to conduct business, we will soon start seeing the genesis of ‘virtual’ Silicon Valleys leveraging the power of the Internet. The main question: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way? It is a way in the sense of “meta”, like Google is a “meta internet”. Do we know how to do it? An example of this, is the next question and its answers, published on LinkedIn: “What does it take to build the next Silicon Valley? If you had to build the next Silicon Valley, what would YOU do?” And one of the answers: “A silicon valley is essentially 90% about the people and 10% about the place. Places close to financial centres and developed cities are more likely to host the next Silicon Valley, but smart people can turn any place into a silicon valley if that’s what they want, even if it’s in the middle of nowhere. However, now with the Internet I believe less in silicon valleys. I mean, what’s the point of having silicon valleys when entrepreneurs and techies can network through the Net and telecommute? If I had to build the next Silicon Valley, I would start by recruiting smart people on the Internet and creating incentives for like-minded individuals and companies to participate in some sort of hub website virtual marketplace”. It makes me think carefully about the next big revolutionary step on internet development. Eventually, I think that the issue that is being treated here is a key issue and it deserves a new blog to be opened for it: https://methainternet.wordpress.com Generally speaking, this is the great step that could completely change our world as far as we know it now, like when computers were created and developed or just like Google, and it is all this tiny but huge things that have been changing our way of living and the way we understand life. This is an open question! You are all invited to build the Meta internet! Then you could start up!

Clarification added 1 day ago:

Jim Jordan
Technology Consultant at Starfish Retentions Solutions

I think you do have it Francisco, Silicon Valley is about the synergy of the people, but just as cloud computing is becoming real with the internet, cloud innovation, with people networking and innovating without the need to have a whiteboard in the room with them, is the next step.

This really isn’t a meta-internet, it’s simply an extension of the functionality that’s already there. Be prepared for completely virtual teams.

An interesting question then is what are the personality types that will function best in this virtual environment? Will it be the same type who work well in an office? I rather think not. There’s a need to be able to have a virtual meeting of minds, and create synergies with other people who you only know through your online environment.

I’m in, essentially, a completely virtual company right now. It’s an interesting experiment in pulling off projects when you pretty much never meet the other folks on the team.

Messages from Jim Jordan (1):

RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?
posted 2 hours ago | Reply to Jim Jordan | Flag answer as…

Share This Question

• Email
• del.icio.us
• Digg

Permalink: To link to this question from your blog or site, copy and paste the URL below.

Share This

if (window.addEventListener || window.attachEvent) { var shareMenu = new popMenu(‘share-link’,’share-menu’); shareMenu.init(); }

Answers (13)

Dan DeMaggio

Hacker / Linux Guru

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Computers and Software (1)… see more, Databases (1), Web Development (1) see less

Paul Graham has the definitive essay on Silicon Valley.

Silicon Valley can’t become virtual: Startups require multiple people who know/trust each other, and that’s hard/impossible to do over the Internet.

Links:

• http://www.paulgraham.com/siliconvalley.html
• http://www.paulgraham.com/startuphubs.html

Messages from Dan DeMaggio (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Jan van Til

Informatiekundig ontwerper at Gasunie

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Internationalization and Localization (1)

A rather radical way to develop Internet is to focus on the way we treat Personal Information. If we would radically treat Personal Information as Personal Property… and if we would understand and appreciate the consequences of it as outlined in the “i Charter” (see: http://www.dotindividual.com/doticharter.htm) and further explained on Primavera (University of Amsterdam): http://primavera.fee.uva.nl/PDFdocs/2006-10.pdf (please note: “iDNA-Manifesto” is synonymous with “i Charter”)… then the character of Internet would radically change because the way we deal with information – our own Personal Information and Personal Information of other Persons – radically changes. Please, do ponder that for (quite) a while.
There is much, much more to say on this broad subject, but I will leave it to mentioning the next url to you: http://primavera.fee.uva.nl/PDFdocs/2007-05.pdf. In this article an ontology is sketched for unambiguously capturing limitless behavioural variety.

Clarification added 17 hours ago:

Well, I am pleased to see other answers appear… Here’s my comment on two of them…
Albert J Caruana suggests to change the legal systems. Oké! That’s where the iCharter/iDNA are aiming at too. Next Albert J Caruana suggests to really do something about identity management. Yes, he is absolutely right on that one too! And that’s the point where http://primavera.fee.uva.nl/PDFdocs/2006-10.pdf comes in: identity management distilled. Another important article for that matter is http://primavera.fee.uva.nl/PDFdocs/2006-02.pdf (semiotics of identity management). What we’re really talking about here is a new discipline: civil information management. See http://primavera.fee.uva.nl/PDFdocs/2007-21.pdf for a short introduction.
In other words: we are talking about a real paradigm shift here. And that’s what Chuck Hague poits out to us.

Messages from Jan van Til (2):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Shariff Masood

Senior IT Professional

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Planning (1)

My two cents –

Get the government out of this business! Let Free Enterprise rule!

Get BroadBand to every one or something better!

All else will follow!

Messages from Shariff Masood (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

remmolt zwartsenberg

Owner, several and Computer Networking Consultant

see all my answers

The internet, being an evolution of ARPANET, was designed as a communication platform that would keep on running when radio-networks would be blacked out by electromagnetic shockwaves caused by nuclear detonations. (EMP). Now that in 2008 it is finally living up to that functionality, mankind (and womankind?) finds that we wind up with higher power bills and less quality time with our friends, families, volunteer communities etc. Some careful usage statistics and logging analysis indicates that anywhere among 1,5 and 2 billion people are concurrently online on this little bright blue ball we call Planet Earth.

Internet is a medium in blossom, but hmm, we DID see some huge spiders weaving & crawling the WorldWideWeb 😉 Our sons are online on average 10 hours per day, if we let them. Will typically forget about the ‘real’ world and the practice of ‘simple’ skills like cooking a healthy meal for say, 5-9 people. And, no, still can’t not explain to my old mother (now 83) what benefits SHE would reap from getting connected and online.

Is there any 1 out there that has a clue where we are going from here?

-Remmolt

Messages from remmolt zwartsenberg (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Sergey Lourie

PhD, expert at Russian State Corporation of Nanotechnologies

see all my answers

I’d like to mention also that there were other networks (we could also recall BBS’ in the modem age, I was 14 at the moment) that were pushed away by the growing and evolving internet society. I think that it’s the simplicity of tag usage and superiour flexibility of HTML language invented by CERN employee that was behind the explosive boom of internet. And this boom, in turn, indicated the need for other protocols that developed later.
As for evolution of internet itself, 15 years ago we could communicate only with text messages, now audio and video conferences are not uncommon. This evolution, however, wouldn’t be possible without the prior and parallel evolution of IT.
It may seem that evolution of internet has slowed down – now it’s too hard to find ways to communicate other than text, audio and video. Maybe think about tactile/action feedback that could be used for new interfaces – the imperfect contemporary Wii does that today and what can such interfaces evolve to in future? Or maybe invent a way of sending the flavours and smells in order to complete the full gamma of senses available to humans? – That’s what could be used for future meta-internet, I think.
As for the people, which are usually the greatest asset of any successful company, some brilliant folks can’t leave their household due to being disabled. Think of Steve Hawkins, for example. And there are many others for whom internet is the only way to reach out.
With the growing perfection of communicative environment such folks can be more and more productive. And in commercial way, too.

Clarification added 1 day ago:

Stephen Hawkins (I hope I spelled his name right) – astrophysicist from USA, Nobel prise winner

Messages from Sergey Lourie (2):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Albert J Caruana

Information Security, Manufacturing Process Improvement

see all my answers

I would start to change the legal systems – Establish the “Code Napoleon” of the internet

In my experience more problems with criminality and usage (e-commerce, e-government) are due to differences in rules and regulations than to limitations of technology

The next thing is to outlaw http and tcp/ip and prescribe a communication vehicle which enables universal identification of the user – the current anonymity is a boon to wrongdoers.
brainstorming on the subject – if you are asking everybody to trust a vendor or any national organisation to incorporate a trusted computing identifier, it will fail due to mistrust.
Use an international electronic passport e.g. issued by UNO, to identify who owns which device which is used to interact.

Messages from Albert J Caruana (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Chuck Hague (chuck@kcuhc.com)

Information Technology and Services Professional

see all my answers

Here’s an odd bit of input…I read a book called “The Planiverse” by Alexander Keewatin Dewdney. In short, someone has established contact through a computer to a two dimensional universe. In conversations with a “flat” 2D person, the flat person is trying to comprehend what a third dimension is. The human thinks about this and says something to the effect of pointing to a place you cannot see or imagine (VERY rough quote). The reason I mention this is that I believe it is from that unseen/unimagined place you need to look to answer your question. I think that assembling like-minded people is exactly the WRONG thing to do when looking for what you seek. The more diverse the collection of people or those who have input, the greater the chance you’ll stumble across it.

If you collect a bunch of astronomers together and ask them how to solve a communication problem, they’ll design rockets to put satellites into orbit. Collect a bunch of people from all walks of life together, and you’ll probably get an easier, cheaper, and more useful result.
kcuhC

Links:

• http://books.google.com/books?id=wIzwyzHSrL4C

Messages from Chuck Hague (chuck@kcuhc.com) (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

TJ Dodenhoff

Sr. Voice Network Engineer at Allianz Life

see all my answers

I think this question is a step beyond what I feel is the biggest issue with the Internet – universal access. Before we can create radical new developments for the Internet, we should be ensuring that everyone who chooses to access it can easily do so, regardless of their location or their income. The internet should be available on the streets – to get directions or in lieu of a phone book (as 2 examples), not just in coffee houses, bookstores and libraries. Every home should in the US (at least) should be equipped with internet access, even for the simplest reasons.

Messages from TJ Dodenhoff (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Cory Lauscher

Senior Programmer Analyst at Catalina Marketing

see all my answers

I think we can find answers by looking at the youngest generation. What kinds of traits can we find in our youth? The teens and kids that I know all like the social aspect of the Internet. And even though social networking is not new at this point, I think this area will continue to develop. Think about how our youth is text message crazy. The internet is going to be an increasingly important tool in the social lives of people going forward.

Breakthroughs in ease of use will also be important in the coming years. Look at how iPods and iMacs are drawing customers looking for the easy to use products. I’m not sure of the applications, but I think ease-of-use will be important also.

Messages from Cory Lauscher (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

John Rinck

Systems Applications Engineer at Xilinx

see all my answers

Think of the internet as a building. What the building contains is entirely up to you. If you want to buy a book, then the building magically becomes amazon.com or barnesandnoble.com. If you want to meet people, it becomes myspace, facebook, or linkedin. You control when you go in, what you do while you are there, and when you’ll leave, same as any real life building.

Messages from John Rinck (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Jacob Leffler

Principal, President at The Basement Design + Motion

see all my answers

I really do not look at the answer from the perspective of the technologists writing code, rather I see an answer from the perspective of the average user. After all they really have the power to determine what technologies remain, and which go through their use or lack thereof. The beauty of the net, from the average users’ perspective, has been largely that it empowers everyday folk to get the information they want, when they want it. I do not think that fundemental principle has changed much. Broadband made that that process a lot faster and a lot more dynamic regarding content procurement and how it can be produced and delivered. Open source made it easy for a non-technologist or non-programmer to actually create their own content/web experience and I believe (my next strategy to develop the net in a new radical way) that my next development would be a natural extension of trends exhibited by the average net user: 1. extend connectivity to most facets of daily life – already getting there but a long way to go 2. Keep increasing connectivity speed – this makes it easier for the user to incorporate the web into more of their daily life – creating new daily habits that will help to further develop new ideas and radical tools on the web 3. Quit designing web experiences as flat, text driven experiences for this moving audience 4. Extend behavioral targeting through IP networks into traditional media delivery devices – it is already happening, but has a long way to go – just ask Asia and Europe, they are a few years ahead of us here in the States.

Messages from Jacob Leffler (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Guy Lecky-Thompson

Entrepreneurial Business IT / Development Manager

see all my answers

I think the accessibility question is vital. I also believe that the next step forward will look like a step back.

Anyone who familiar with Iain M. Banks ‘culture’ novels will have come across a text based service that everyone can tap into through a ‘neural lace’ that is embedded in the brain. If I remember right (and I’m nowhere near my library as I write this) it allows access through a Gopher-style menu system.

For those who don’t remember Gopher, it was a kind of hierarchical directory of resources on the original internet. At least, what I’ve come to think of as the original internet, anyway.

If we take this idea and transpose it onto the accessibility problem, information sharing via telephony (having a voice read you your emails, do basic Gopherspace operations, etc.), text based messaging, and very low power internet appliances, the future is clear.

An internet that is accessible from anywhere, but which can be accessed in split brain mode. That is, like listening to radio, or half-watching TV, or holding a conversation whilst driving, the internet can become a useful background activity.

What I wouldn’t give to be able to sort my email, whilst driving to work, using my mobile phone to communicate with the mail server…

Just a thought.

Messages from Guy Lecky-Thompson (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Maaike Flissebaalje

Artist and Graphic Designer, FLIS art & design

see all my answers

Hello Francisco,

I started writing an answer, but I am afraid that would have turned into a book.

Instead I will give you a short answer.

In order to determine the next strategy one should think outside the box, and also keep in mind humankind could roughly be divided into two groups: those that need entertainment and those that have an urge for knowledge.

Regards,

Maaike Flissebaalje

Messages from Maaike Flissebaalje (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Luigi LoPresti

Digital Media Strategist and Consultant

see all my answers

Well, for those us who get paid for these insights…I can’t give away my multi-billion dollar answer…however. I can offer these insights. As far as a strategic “step” is concerned, I think we need to pay attention the bridge between technology and brain science, and between social psychology and internet behaviour. The detrimental effects of a “wired” life seem pretty obvious, so what do the integrated solution sets look like to minimize those effects? How will, over say the next 20-30 years a fuller integration of “digital interface” effect our lives? I am fond of “living digital” solutions. For instance-your “digital” wallet, includes medical information and insurance for you and your family members. You slip it into your car and the car recognizes you, you slip in the office door, home door and so on…Once in your home, you say ” Messages” and up on the wall are you phone/email messages. You say stock quotes etc.. You say “Where’s Jill” and you see here GPS coordinates down the street and she gets a ping on her card/phone/wallet to come home for dinner. She comes home and a reader tells you she is low on protein and to adjust dinner, she goes upstairs and she can’t get content off the web until she finishes her assignments which are pre-loaded on her screen. You get the picture. Getting “there” is the question…right? So small steps. I think seamless integration tools like the IPhone are the beginning of this thread…I can’t wait to see what’s next..

Messages from Luigi LoPresti (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Marco Monfils

RIVERSIDE TALENT Marketing & Management, MX4 Marketing Advisory, Professor of Marketing (MBA)

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Government Policy (1)… see more, Sales Techniques (1) see less

Develop a simple “how to make your own website in 15 minutes” instructional booklet, for the mass consumer, with inclusive package of 1,000 or so templates, sell website updates & improvements via the web, call it online web support.
Ensure human contact on the helpline, ensure 1 day response by an expert on the following day, watch the internet explode
offer the service not only to new website creators but also to current owners/managers, thereby removing a further barrier to entry, this allows the effective almost effortless outsourcing of this key but time consuming aspect of one’s life, work-life.

Messages from Marco Monfils (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Rob Howe

Chairman and CEO of Etelcharge.com, Inc., (OTCBB:ETLC)

see all my answers

Find a way to convert packets to stored power.

Find a way to deliver tangible goods over the net.

Messages from Rob Howe (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Felix Obes

Supervisor | Sabre Airline Solutions

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Business Development (1)

Main things to boost development:
-Get everyone access, free basic connection, pay for good broadband, everywhere, wirelessly.
-Move to IPV6 and get everyone a Unique IP number.
-Improve tagging and relevance searching methods.
-Push for development in wearables and integrative hardware.
-Create a work-hub concept for teleworkers.

Messages from Felix Obes (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Andy Newman

Human Resources and Talent Resource Consultant

see all my answers

Best Answers in: Staffing and Recruiting (1)… see more, Internationalization and Localization (1) see less

Francisco,

I think in just asking the question you have in some small way started the answer. I do not see one reply closing this deal.
500+ members on one site, Linkedin, with almost no press, publicity or marketing. Seems to me it is grassroots efforts like this that would cause the spark.

Messages from Andy Newman (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Carlos Mota

Web Designer

see all my answers

The web 3.0 is about the semantic web that, in a simple way, means putting precise questions and getting precise answers.
The Holly Graal is the artificial intelligence and this has nothing of new because it’s a research that is being done for many years by now, except the fact that maybe Internet could be the place where it actually could be achieved.
And the power for achieving this is the same that led many kids in the past and present to create or give an essential contribute (and some of these kids have become millionaires in the process) for what the web is today: millions of brains thinking and deciding with freedom what they want.
So, the next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way is to give an answer for this question:
How to give any user what he EXACTLY wants in the fastest and simple way.

Messages from Carlos Mota (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Michael Bannon

Associate with Telos Partners

see all my answers

The internet is purely a bearer mechanism that allows us to commmunicate and interact. So radical change is going to be about interaction and access to processed information. Innovation will come about through cutlural change and this can be demonstrated by the massive adoption of text messaging in the wireless domains that sees teenagers communicating with their friends as they sit eating dinner with their parents.

As the abilitry to access the Internet expands the result of “total access” 24 hours a day will mean that communications are possible whenever and whereever the consumer wants it. This means the internet will deliver services almost coincident with thought and demand.

Spinoffs ? Image the concept of a two way browser – my browser (i think of it as profiling tool or image) could enable me to automatically pull content as I walk down the street to meet my profile (opportunites to consume) or push content out to the world – how about an internet connected jacket that monitors your location and state of health and presents an “image” of you to your selected stakeholders (EG Family members, emergency services, insurers and your boss). The trick here will be how we process it for commercial advantage.

So; two way automatic communications that serve the need of stakeholders 24/7. Incremental value added services that integrate with your lifestyle, small secure payments and novel devices built into clothing, cars, building etc that allow access to sutiably processed data.

Messages from Michael Bannon (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Deborah O’Shea

Chief Networking Officer/In-house Counsel

see all my answers

This is Ai3’s answer: We are designing TrueThinker™ to be the world’s first intelligent website.The technology underlying TrueThinker is the patented AutoGnomic™ technology. While it’s difficult to fully describe in current technology terminology, the AutoGnome™ technology underlying TrueThinker is automated inference software which essentially extracts intelligence from an environment (including how a computer is being used to interface with the Internet) by itself, automatically. That is to say, the typical manner of codifying intelligence using programmers is eliminated. Once extracted, this intelligence can then be applied to solutions in the domain of the environment. And, since its “learning” is automated, experience gathered during its use can be fed back, continuously adjusting its knowledge as the environment inevitably changes. The AutoGnome is a true automated inference machine. TrueThinker.com, upon completion of the first full build-out, will have three basic functional capabilities: knowledge organization (learning), knowledge creation (thinking), and knowledge applications (acting). With its unique and novel (i.e. the Web as AI) foundation for these functionalities, TrueThinker.com will evolve into the ubiquitous product that transforms the computer into an effective learning, thinking and acting machine.

In the current version, TrueThinker.com has three prime components — MyTrueThinker, MyKnowledgeBank and MyCommunities. MyKnowledgeBank is where users manually or automatically, via their trained AutoGnome, store their selected relevant and valued information for easy retrieval. MyCommunities is where users and eventually their trained AutoGnomes join or organize groups of people or their AutoGnomes with the same social, business, research or other common interests in order to share resources and hold discussions, publicly or privately.

Near-term improvements will include: an autocategorization whereby, based solely (no user participation) on automatically identified similarities in content, the AutoGnome will create new categories of potential relevance to the user’s interests. Also, there will be a TrueWikiThinker function. The next version of TrueThinker.com will incorporate knowledge creation (thinking) via a product which facilitates the thought process by finding similarities and differences between a stated problem or query and other seemingly unrelated topics and, on that basis, suggests “new” concepts to the user. Adjoined to this function, TrueThinker.com will autonomously find relevant information related to a MINDClone™’s independent ideation and store it in MyKnowledgeBank for the user’s future use. And finally, TrueThinker.com will autonomously build communities based on degrees of similarity among selected components of individual TrueThinker KnowledgeBanks.
The domain and language dependency exists only in the knowledge where it belongs. The current implementation of the AutoGnome in TrueThinker can be seen as an infant. That is, it is only the first level of our technology roadmap that currently has five defined levels, each at least an order of magnitude more functional than the previous. A comparison of the current level with other technologies such as neural networks shows similar performance. However, these technologies are at a level of maturity evolved over several decades and can be expected to evolve slowly in the future, if at all.

Messages from Deborah O’Shea (1):

• RE: What would be your next strategy step to continue developing Internet in a new radical way?

Read Full Post »