Hello Members

[David W]

I wanted to take 5 mins to make my first post at our new "member engagement facility" - I hope that all members will take the opportunity to use this as a tool to network with each other.

[Geoff N]

Agree 100% with David's thoughts - the aimnet forums are a fantastic opportunity for all of our members to connect, discuss, debate and share.

Looking forward to seeing you all active in the forums and helping contribute to the collegiality that AIM membership offers.

Geoff

[Marcelle C]

Well, I have a confession to make. Networking face to face is my preference, yet I am finding that social media is the next best thing when I want to discuss issues with like minded people. I am looking forward to a different way of networking. Cheers Marcelle

[Anne K]

My 17 year old tells me I should keep up with the times, but like Marcelle I would much prefer face to face networking, particularly if it's accompanied with a good cup of coffee.

In the absence of a coffee buddy today, this is the next best thing. I'm looking forward to reaping the rewards and benefits.

[Burgo]

"member engagement facility"

Now whats this in plain English?

Forums are fantastic. Networking from in front of your computer in a comfortable chair with or without a freshly brewed coffee, scotch, beer or glass of wine. Not having to listen to someone intensely so that you dont miss any of the conversation. Not having to stand up getting an every increasingly sore back, neck. And should that person become boring it is rude to walk away or turn your back. So you have to be nice, and not the true you.

Electronic networking or a Forum is in my humble opinion a great way to network. If Im really not interested in what is being said , I can click off or to another post. Not every post will be a winner, and not every poster will be able to hold your attention for a great length of time but to be able to say what you truly feel without the giveaway body language is fantastic.

To give you some idea what Im trying to say have a look at
www.flyingsolo.com.au/forums

[Mark L]

Very good points, Burgo. Another great advantage of online networking is that it puts everyone on an equal footing and gives you access to everyone in the space - perfect for people who are shy or not necesarily good at traditional networking, or who are physically unable to attend. Here's hoping that these forums result in some rewarding connections and knowledge sharing.

[Burgo]

I am hoping to see this forum develop into a really good forum. I think its about marketing. Perhaps even an email inviting them to join, and take part. Its a 24/7 networking group that may have something worth looking at.