In his senior year at Tempe High School, Mr. M. Kameron Hawkins initiated Networking Coffee Events as an enjoyable way to engage with local business professionals and deepen his knowledge of the business landscape in Tempe, AZ.
In 1981, while attending Tempe High School, Kameron faced a lack of extracurricular opportunities focused on business development, as there were no relevant courses, workshops, or professional organizations available. In contrast, Scottsdale High School provided access to Junior Achievement, which was exclusively for high school students at that time.
During the first meeting of a newly established group composed of local students from various regions, Kameron was elected President. The group experienced significant success, meeting weekly to develop a product for sale, which garnered substantial recognition throughout Arizona. Kameron received invitations to participate in local events, statewide conferences, and even served on a panel at a leadership forum that included participants from western states.
Participants at the Leadership Forum valued Kameron’s candid insights on Lead Generation, Contact Management, and maintaining Business Relationships.
In the current digital age, although social media serves as a means to connect with a wider audience, attending in-person networking events allows for interactions with a variety of professionals beyond typical online interactions. Engaging with people from various backgrounds, industries, and experiences can lead to fresh viewpoints, imaginative concepts, and groundbreaking solutions. This variety is essential for individual development, enhancing comprehension, and cultivating a diverse network that is challenging to form solely through social media, which is why Kameron
opted to reinstate the Networking Coffee Events.
While the influence of social media on networking cannot be overlooked, the advantages of participating in networking events are significant. The relationships developed, the depth of the discussions, the immediate feedback received, and the chances to hone soft skills all enhance a professional environment that is richer and more diverse.
As we progress in our careers within an ever-increasingly digital landscape, it is essential to strike the right balance between online and face-to-face networking to ensure both professional success and personal development.
Recognizing the value of Networking Coffee Events can result in enduring connections, important insights, and a strong network that aids in one’s career path.