Week 5 Discussion

Professional Networking

In making the decision to pursue an MBA from Walden University, you have become part of a large network of learners and educators. Walden offers many ways for you to connect with your new community.

To prepare for your Discussion:

· Explore the following site, and begin the process of building or expanding your professional network:

o Walden University Career Planning and Development. (n.d.). NetworkingLinks to an external site.. https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/careerservicescenter/networking/home

· Connect with other Walden students, staff, and alumni by considering joining one of the Facebook groups available:

o Walden University. (n.d.). Walden Facebook groupsLinks to an external site.. https://www.waldenu.edu/facebook-group-finder

· Then, think about any other networking you have already done through sites like LinkedIn or through other professional, community, or social networking organizations.

Post some proposed steps for building and maintaining a strong professional network, including an examination of the merits of doing so. Be sure to include the following:

· What are some benefits you can gain by developing your professional network? How can you be a benefit to others through professional networking? In other words, what are some ways to develop a mutually beneficial professional network?

· Do you feel that professional networking is worth the effort?

· What are some steps you can take to create and/or expand your professional network? Once you establish a professional network, what are some things you can do to sustain and grow your networking efforts?