Originally published July 25 2005
Old-school networking techniques on the way out
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Client-wooing practices such as boozy lunch meetings and late night business get-togethers are considered "old-school" by the current generation of business professionals, and are being replaced by speedy meetings, technology and clearly defined business/family priorities, reports the Greater Baton Rouge Business Report.
Not so long ago, spending lots of long evenings and weekends wooing clients was standard procedure for bankers, lawyers and others looking to cast a social net that ultimately would snare deals.
Mark Bensabat, regional president for Bank One and Chase, and himself the son of a banker, recalls his father heading out several nights a week to client dinners and banquets.
Old-school wining and dining is just that--old school--and not necessary to bring in business.
As 25- to 40-year-olds gain authority in the workplace, the so-called Gen X'ers are reshaping networking.
For starters, they are putting new limits on after-hours socializing and pulling back from participation in traditional business organizations.
Amy Lambert, 34, is a lawyer with Adams and Reese specializing in commercial litigation.
A few years ago, he reluctantly dropped out of the Sunrise Rotary Club after the couple's son developed an illness that twice required hospitalization.
Experts say a new protectiveness of family time is among the values that distinguish younger generations of workers from earlier ones.
He sometimes socializes with the attorneys of client firms but says they are typically as eager to get home as he is.
Take Forum 35, a volunteer organization that has grown to about 500 members since it started more than a decade ago.
While its official aims are civic engagement and leadership development, networking is a happy byproduct for many members.
Younger professionals often view traditional business groups as stodgy cliques of mostly older white men, a perception those groups will have to work hard to overcome.
He is sympathetic to the competing responsibilities of younger professionals, "but when we sit down and tell them what we're about, I think we will be an attractive way & to serve the community."
All content posted on this site is commentary or opinion and is protected under Free Speech. Truth Publishing LLC takes sole responsibility for all content. Truth Publishing sells no hard products and earns no money from the recommendation of products. NaturalNews.com is presented for educational and commentary purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice from any licensed practitioner. Truth Publishing assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material. For the full terms of usage of this material, visit www.NaturalNews.com/terms.shtml