Social Networking – New Buzz For an Old Saw

Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
Main Entry: netoworkoing
Function: noun
Date: 19671: the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions; specifically: the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business.2: the establishment or use of a computer network.The term networking was added to the dictionary in 1967, but the practice of networking among people is as old as humans are. In fact, networking is hard-wired into our DNA.Shockingly enough, networking is not unique to humans. Dr. Robert Salposki, a neurobiologist at Stanford University and recipient of the MacArthur Fellowship, also known as the Genius Award, has studied baboons and their social structure. He has shown us that baboons and humans share many similar communication practices, socio-political hierarchical structures, and even the common tactics of gossip. Dolphins and elephants also have elaborate social structures where networking is vital to their survival.Another shocking realization is that women are not the only ones born with the ability to network, nor are we better at networking than our male counterparts are. In ancient times, male hunter-gatherers got together and networked effectively to go hunting for days on end. Proof that this type of networking worked was the precious protein the hunters snared. The hunters then would share their bounty with the entire tribe, creating a “web of mutual obligation.”In today’s economy, we have to work hard to find employment, and many consulting firms are thriving by teaching networking skills. These companies are marketing networking as a new concept, and individuals are paying big bucks for this type of service. As employers are becoming more technologically savvy, social networking is no longer impressive by itself. In many cases, social networking actually can work against job hunters. Be cautious before posting those funny pictures from college or political rants on your favorite blog because you never know who will see them. Networking also may turn into a modern-day “web of mutual suspicion.”Electronic networking is becoming an annoyance for some employers, and companies who used to hire a friend of a friend of a friend have stopped this practice. Whole Foods, the world’s largest organic health food store, is one of these companies that recently modified its hiring practices. Whole Foods now only accepts hiring recommendations from employees that can personally attest to the candidates’ quality and integrity.Social networks are not necessarily the right vehicle for expressing feelings, frustrations, and opinions. Many individuals use social networks in lieu of a diary. However, you cannot hide this diary in the sock drawer from your mother. Know that by gaining transparency, you are effectively giving up the right to privacy.Please do not think I am a social networking Luddite! I am not against networking. I see its value and its purpose. Maybe it is time to go back to basics.Social networks are great ways to find information about the person or company we need to approach and to find elements that we can use to establish common ground. For instance, by looking at a profile, you discover that you and the person you wish to establish contact with share the same pastime or enjoy the same music. These interests can help you to establish common ground in a proper setting. Social networking is a powerful tool if we use it to direct us to the right person or group.Establishing mutually beneficial relationships built on shared experiences and common ground are the basis for forging true networks of peers that can help facilitate your goals. Keep in mind that effective networking really builds on mutually beneficial relationships, not on how many contacts you have in your social network.Networking has been and will continue to be the best way to find the best opportunities in business. Just do not let a consultant sell it to you as something “new and revolutionary.”

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