Entry #10 | Human Networking

Hello again! With all this discussion and pondering of media it occurred to me that one of the topics that I don't see among all the hustle and bustle of life, as it seems to have become, is that of human interactions. No, I am not talking about the courtesy "hi! and bye!" type scenarios. I mean like the "omg, I need someone that will listen and maybe offer some advice, or even not offer advice" type of scenarios. There is so much information flowing around us but it doesn't slow down for us as individuals. That is something we need to address among ourselves. The casual, or not so casual, perusal of social media with the likes, shares, follows, retweets and emoji-speak are great for keeping up with family and existing friends, but not really the best for meeting new people.

New people...now there's a novel concept, right? For the high school student who had lots of friends and is now in college, there can be quite a disconnect. Then there is leaving college and transitioning into the working world. I suppose one could argue that once a college student has acclimated to the change of college with such a diverse range of students and teachers that the transition to work isn't such a big leap. There will be changes though, like no more avoiding scheduling morning classes at eight o'clock (cuz' sleep) since odds are that their employer will expect them to be present before such a time. Transitioning between employers, or even industries, as a professional requires engaging a new group of people and rebuilding your credibility and/or reputation. None of it is exactly what I would term easy, but we all manage to get through it one way or another.

With all that, I would like to take this opportunity to suggest that you remain cognizant of the people around you. There are sites like LinkedIn that offer the capability to network with people online. As a site within the realm of social media, I would caution anyone to keep in mind that those connections can be just as fleeting as the casual greeting interactions. There is an article written by Mark Suster titled "Understanding the Power of Your Human Networks" which provides and interesting viewpoint on the topic, despite being written in 2014. Another interesting read on the topic is "How Human Networking Works," by Keith Ferrazzi.

I am not a fan of the "look for people that can give you something" since you immediately place yourself at the disadvantage. Admittedly though, human networking can be great for locating employment and it is considered one of the best methods, if not still the best. However, just meeting people to get to know other people and hear their stories as well as sharing yours is powerful, for everyone involved. We are all connected and despite all the nonsense we hear about how there are all these differences is not a reason to allow ourselves to become, or remain, isolated. We all learn and grow through interactions with people, regardless of any category by which people can be divided. Put in the face time, discuss ideas, share stories and just simply appreciate that which makes us all human. Of course, you need to keep your head about you and ensure safe environments. I shouldn't have to say that but it is probably a sign of the times. In the end however, there is so much out there in the big wide world and there are no pictures that can substitute for the experiences that are possible. Take care and best wishes, everyone!