ABSTRACT
The purpose of this chapter is to consider what we mean by networking, and to think about the different ways by which networking may advance ideas and new ways of working. Issues and concepts introduced here will be considered and discussed further in later chapters. Thus, the chapter acts as an overview of some of the salient characteristics, issues and problems of networking in theory and practice.
A significant issue in writing this book is agreeing exactly what networking is and what it is not. Therefore, this chapter offers our definition of networking, and goes onto discussing the implications and challenges that arise from our definition and the boundaries to what we include within it. Although the term ‘networking’ is in wide general use, it can mean different things to different people. Our definition derives in part from our extensive review of the many literatures on networking, which are discussed further in the chapter as one of the challenges that arises in this area. We will explain why we consider it neither possible nor desirable to attempt one single theoretical insight into this broad topic.
We have carried out empirical research into the experiences of individuals into networking in practice. These enquiries have given rise to our model of Network-IN, which we introduce in the chapter and which are summarised in our definition. Our definition lays emphasis on both the purpose and the anticipated benefits of networking as an intentional practice, reflecting the ways in which respondents discussed the topic in our research.
