People and Blog Bonanza

When there is a seemingly vast deficit of information for growth, there is a larger supply of resources that are available. When searching for this information, it is mandatory that you know where to find such resources. The internet is full of tremendous resources, but there are an excess of mediocre sites and references. The way that I will seek this information out, is through groups of people that are interested in the same topics that I am. Being involved in a group can lead to many different opportunities. My mentor throughout my college years explained to me he has accepted many positions just by being connected with someone, and also giving back to that group. A two-way source of communication builds trust. This trust leads to communities looking our for that individual and referring them to one of their own connections.

Although it is great to receive assistance, it is necessary to give back to that community. Being active within a group and sharing your expertise will portray you as a beacon of light to those within that group. Sharing your experiences and knowledge often will also make your group members seek you out with answers to questions they have. Being able to assist people you have never met face-to-face has got to be one of the most rewarding experiences I know of. Within your communities, you will notice the "newbie" or "new guy". Invite him in, listen to the stories and experiences they have to share. This will help your mentoring skills, and down the road you will able to offer advice to other's more frequently.

Remember, this network is about working together. Be kind, and think of your responses before you post. Text can always come across the board much more negative than you ever intended. Ask questions, maybe even if you know the answer to them already. This will give you a new perspective on what other people are thinking and how they would have behaved in a similar situation. But the most important thing to remember about a PLN, is to HAVE FUN! Be enjoying the interaction with others, you will show that group through the communications.

Professional Learning Network

I have thought a lot about the idea of a Professional Learning Network even before I knew that is what they were called. In reviewing the ideas and ways to develop my PLN, I have noticed many benefits to starting a PLN. There is always information that is shared throughout blogs, videos, and other means of communication. While in this network, I am able to follow people that have similar professional interests as I do, but it also gives me a chance to explore new ways of learning.

One thing I have started doing is learning a lot from other people. I have connections on LinkedIn and Twitter, and I utilize their experience to help me grow. One specific example is, I found an employee that works at a company I think I would really enjoy working for. I added this person on LinkedIn, and have been talking with them getting to know their background professionally. In doing so, I have found skills that I have, and skills that I could improve upon that might help me obtain a position with this company, but also be able to benefit them once hired.

Learning directly from a person's own experience has a greater impact on me than does reading a textbook or magazine. I like to hear the struggles and real experiences people go through to obtain their status today. Asking these questions and building these relationships is a great way of deepening trust. Building relationships of trust is a great way to get other people to keep an eye out for your needs.

In seeking these individuals out, I have also tried to seek out those that may need my assistance. I heard a great quote that said something to the effect of; "If you help others in need; you will be offered assistance while you are in need." I really enjoy that quote and think that there is a lot of truth to that. When we put ourselves in a situation where we help other people consistently, we will be given the same opportunity to be helped when we are in need. Everywhere I can, I ask "how may I help you to make your day go better?"

A PLN is a chance to help others, either directly through messages and phone calls, or indirectly through posting a blog or article that they will come across and read what you have to say. You never know what positive words you share might take hold in a complete stranger and change them forever.

Introduction

My name is Justin Jackson. I am new to blogging, and am excited for a different, unfamiliar experience. Through blogging, I hope I am able to learn more about myself, but also learn from other individuals who share much-needed content on the internet. I am starting this for my OLP 4407 - Instructional Technology in Human Resource Development, but I have a sneaking suspicion that it will be something that I become very interested in. I hope that I am able to learn technological skills from other's that will be of a great benefit to me with future courses, as well as for my professional development.

#techhrd