Leaders, especially in the nursing profession, can use networking essentially in the personal, operational as well as strategic development (Ibarra &Hunter, 2007). For instance, operational networking allows leaders to ensure efficiency in daily activities at work. Operational networking primarily facilitates the internal activities of an organization; it will enable leaders to efficiently coordinate and run the affairs of the organization where he works (Ibarra &Hunter, 2007). However, personal networking is beneficial in the enhancement of oneself in terms of professional growth. For example, you can learn a lot from other people with more experience in the nursing profession hence contributing to your personal growth and development (Ibarra &Hunter, 2007). Strategic networking allows nursing leaders to figure out their needs and trends in the medical profession. Leaders must meet all the aspects of networking such as operational, personal as well as strategic networking to fully network and assist their patients.

I served previously as a nurse coordinator for the craniofacial and cleft clinic, and each year we attended the American cleft palate association (ACPA) (Ibarra &Hunter, 2007). It is an opportunity that enabled me to make numerous contacts. It was such a wonderful experience to meet and network at the ACPA conference with so l coordinators at the ACPA conference (Ibarra &Hunter, 2007). I was able to sit on the board of education at the Conference and even chair the coordination of the particular interest group (Ibarra &Hunter, 2007). The opportunity to chair only happened because of my ability to network. Networking at work is the chance to make lifelong friendships and these connections are beneficial in the medical profession (Ibarra &Hunter, 2007). For instance, there are many instances when I picked up a phone and called someone with more experience to assist me with something so that I can help my patients. Networking at ACPA to me was personal because my daughter was born with a cleft, so I gained a lot of insight for the benefit of my patients and family.

Reference

Ibarra, H. &Hunter, M. (2007). How Leaders Create and Use Networks.  Retrieved on March 22, 2019, from https://hbr.org/2007/01/how-leaders-create-and-use-networks