Academy Coaching

Monday’s (2-2-09) workshop at the University of Michigan School of Social Work is titled Building Relationships to Expand Your Professional Network. Commonly known as “networking” I prefer to focus on the value/ purpose and the ways in which people can identify potential opportunities for building relationships that can ultimately enhance an individuals social capital, access to important information and available opportunities within their field.

Over the course of your academic career you will interact with people in a variety of roles who have varying levels of influence on your career. Your future success in academia is determined not only by your research, publications and teaching but also your ability to navigate the political shoals of academia. Professional networking makes a difference. We will explore ways in which you can expand your network and create mentors out of advisors, department chairs, deans and peers.

What are your thoughts or experiences about networking in the academy?