I was talking with my son last night and he mentioned that a co-worker was going to assist him in making some networking connections.  This morning I received a request for an association on "Linked In" which is a networking site for professionals.  I have heard that more and more people are using these kind of sites both to connect with others of similar interests and also to provide the proverbial parachute should there be a change in employment status.

Networking is an important aspect of leadership.  It recognizes that we are not an island unto ourselves and that we really do need each other.  It equips us with a useful support system and resources to face the challenges.  It also provides the possibility of "giving back" through mentoring and supporting others who may need something we can provide.

Networking face-to-face and networking through sites such as Linked In, although providing the same kind of availability of resources and opportunities for support, require two different skill sets.  Face-to-face networking requires people skills.  To make connections of the quality that will result in relationships of support, an individual has to be able to see others as valuable and intentionally engage in relationship building.  This can happen at various levels from the merest acquaintance to a solid friend.  Face-to-face networking requires me to think about others, and their needs/feelings, if I'm going to truly build a relationship that will have a reciprocal benefit.

Networking through internet sites is much less demanding on people skills.  A click and you're connected.  About all that is required here is a willingness to invest enough time to make the connections and respond to the occasional message.  The value of these networks is that they can be much broader than is possible with face-to-face, even if the depth of the relationship is more shallow.  Still they can provide the ability to connect with a wide range of professionals which may not be possible in the face-to-face environment.

Bottom line:  Networking is important for effective leadership.  Don't ignore either the face-to-face or the social sites like Linked In.  You never know when you will need some help, but one thing is definite, eventually you will.  A little time spent along the way could make all the difference later.