The Enduring Value of Expert Networks and Local Journalism

As a school board member and a professional with over 12 years of experience in IT sales, I have had the privilege of interacting with a wide range of experts and professionals. My intention with this blog is to share valuable advice with other professionals and to provide conversation starters for the youth. I understand that I may not be on the same social platforms as they are, but I believe the principles of building a strong network and valuing expert insights are timeless and universally applicable.

The Power of an Expert Network

In a world saturated with information, having access to experts in various fields is invaluable. Experts provide nuanced insights that go beyond what a basic search can offer. They have dedicated their careers to understanding the intricacies of their fields, and their advice is rooted in deep knowledge and experience.

For example, if you have a friend who is an expert in marketing, asking them for advice on a marketing strategy will yield far more valuable and personalized insights than posting a question in a random social media group. This friend knows you, understands your business context, and can offer tailored advice. Moreover, this personal connection ensures that the information you receive is reliable and actionable.

The Decline of Quality in Social Media Groups

Social media platforms have become overrun with noise, trolling, and misinformation. When you post a question in a neighborhood group or a broad online community, the responses are often unhelpful or irrelevant. Experts and knowledgeable individuals are not spending their time scouring these groups to provide free advice—they're busy with their professional commitments and valued networks.

Consider a recent experience where someone asked about local events for the weekend in a neighborhood group. The responses were a mix of jokes, irrelevant comments, and trolling, offering little to no useful information. This highlights the diminishing value of such platforms for obtaining reliable and relevant advice.

Supporting Local Journalism

Local journalism is another critical resource that is often overlooked. Local journalists are deeply embedded in their communities and are dedicated to reporting accurate and relevant information. Instead of sifting through the noise on social media, turning to local newspapers and trusted media outlets can provide you with comprehensive and trustworthy information.

For instance, finding out about local events or getting expert opinions on various topics can be much more efficiently done through a local newspaper. Journalists have the skills and experience to curate and present information in a way that is both informative and reliable.

Building and Valuing Expert Relationships

In the era of social media and digital communication, it's essential to remember the value of human connections and expertise. Being someone who provides value to others and is respected for their knowledge and integrity can create a network where information flows freely and reliably. 

It's also crucial to approach conversations, interactions, and negotiations with diplomacy. You will rarely get everything you want out of a relationship, and aiming to do so is shortsighted. A vast and ready network can support you in situations you haven't yet anticipated, and maintaining good relationships is key to leveraging this network effectively. Avoid burning bridges unless absolutely necessary, as the strength of your network depends on the goodwill and mutual respect you cultivate. For more on the importance of diplomacy in professional relationships, check out [this resource on diplomacy skills](https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/diplomacy).

Conclusion

The convenience of Google searches and social media groups cannot replace the depth and reliability of advice from experts and local journalists. Building and maintaining a strong network of knowledgeable individuals and supporting local journalism are more important than ever. These resources provide trustworthy, nuanced, and actionable insights that can significantly enhance your personal and professional life.

As the saying goes, "Givers gain." This principle highlights the importance of generosity and reciprocity in building strong networks. By helping others, you build goodwill that will come back to you when you need it most.

Let's prioritize and invest in these valuable connections, ensuring that we continue to benefit from the depth of knowledge and experience they offer.