Social Capital and Networking Behavior-Week 1 -Assignment

Initial Post

Networking can be complex for many people, but with proper knowledge, networking does not have to be challenging. Networking should not always be an art in developing the contact list. Instead, it can also be started by developing skills (Grant, 2019). Many examples of successful venture capitalists have developed successful businesses because of their efficient networking skills. The cases show that mastering one’s craft can be highly effective for building networking.

Similarly, various sources show different means to develop strong networking skills. The author mentioned four elements of social networking: having adequate capital, strengthening the tie, patterning it, and resourcing the tie. So, I have learned that networking is a necessary learning process that needs proper focus on developing skills even before refereeing to contacts. It is also important to note that people from different backgrounds may have different approaches to networking, and social minority groups may have more challenges in developing social ties (Forret, 2006, pp. 149–166). Personally, I am paying a lot of attention to my networking skills. I am also learning to develop a network where my skills are appreciated, and I can learn something. Networking is also crucial to growing as a person.

References

Forret, M. L. (2006). Impact of Social Networks on the Advancement of Women and RaciallEthnic Minority Groups (pp. 149–166). Praeger.

Grant, W. with A. (2019, March 19). Networking for people who hate networking. Retrieved January 27, 2023, from www.ted.com website: https://www.ted.com/talks/worklife_with_adam_grant_networking_for_people_who_hate_networking?referrer=playlist-worklife_with_adam_grant_mar_2019

Post 1

Hi Alla, I agree that we should network with people we feel relevant and attached to. Dr. Forret has made some important points, and it is helping me a lot in ensuring that I am networking where I am valued and can feel relevant. I also like that you have applied the example to your own personal experience. Still, I also think that we should network outside our race and ethnicity to learn about different networking strategies. I think you could have also mentioned free examples from the podcast because it shows how upgrading our skills can help us network with diverse people.

Post 2

Hey, I appreciate that you have discussed the networking diagnostic test is also important to know the importance of networking and how proper networking skills can be developed. Even though I agree with you that broad connections are important for effective social networking, I have also learned that updating skills comes even before developing contacts. However, I like how your entire post is simple and relevant. Do you have any examples from your life where you have seen people interacting with similar ethnicities and groups? I have seen that people prefer making networking in relevant groups but t has also changed over time.