For those of us who work in the education and business sectors networking is a necessary activity. Networking often involves professionals with similar backgrounds gathering together to exchange business leads and referrals from fellow associates.
It’s an occasion for professionals in various fields of employment to build new relationships, as well as generate and advertise business opportunities. Many contend that networking is a more personal, social-oriented activity than print advertising and public relations –not to mention that networking is more cost-effective.
BNI is an example of a real-world networking organization.
On December 9 hotel, tourism and hospitality students from Korea Tourism College gathered for a face-to-face networking session with newly arrived students from Nakamura International Hotel School in Japan. While practicing their English-as-a-Second-Language skills students from both schools engaged in the same type of networking activities as professionals do. New friendships were started. Information between students was exchanged.
We, the instructors, explained that this is how business relationships are started and nurtured. Face-to-face gatherings such as this one are indicative of a type of experience where participants practice their communication and presentation skills. Many business professionals in many fields of employment report that they like these face-to-face networking for the simple reason that it gives them a chance to get to know and meet the people they expect to do business with.
What will this lead to? We’re guessing that, as Internet-based global social networks such as Facebook have become a part of daily life that these young people will stay connected, both socially and professionally. Business networking web communities have enjoyed phenomenal growth in recent years.
What’s next? History will unfold...
Click this link for photos from yesterday’s networking session. Enjoy!
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