Networking is important, and it is a skill. The authors have developed an exercise that provides students with a realistic networking experience within the safe environment of the classroom. The exercise provides a lead-in to the discussion of networking techniques, active listening, the cultivation of secondary networks, appropriate ways to prepare for a networking opportunity, and tactics for cultivating relationships after a networking event. This exercise has an experiential learning and reflective assessment component so that it is aimed at giving students concrete experience, feedback, and an opportunity to reflect on ways to improve their current skill level.
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