In the age of digital dominance, a question looms large: Is in-person networking dying? As Gen Z, a cohort deeply immersed in social media from their earliest memories, steps into the business arena, the landscape of networking and professional interaction is undeniably shifting. Jean Twenge’s seminal work, iGen, sheds light on this digital-first generation, illustrating how social media has fundamentally rewired behaviors and preferences, seemingly relegating face-to-face contact to the sidelines. Twenge’s insights suggest that the future of in-person events and networking may face significant challenges as digital platforms continue to mediate our social interactions.
However, David Brooks offers an alternative perspective in his thought-provoking book, How to Know a Person. Brooks delves into the human psyche, arguing that despite the convenience of online interactions, a deep-seated yearning for personal, meaningful connections exists. He posits that the superficial nature of online engagements cannot satisfy our innate desire to be seen and understood deeply. According to Brooks, this might eventually drive a resurgence in the value of in-person interactions.
While the rise of digital platforms has certainly transformed how we connect, it’s premature to declare the death of in-person networking. Twenge and Brooks’ contrasting views suggest a more nuanced future, where the ease of digital communication coexists with a renewed appreciation for the irreplaceable depth of face-to-face interactions. This dynamic interplay may well dictate the evolution of networking, blending old and new in ways we are yet to understand fully.