Up until recently, I thought technology was everything. Access. Speed. Communication. Etc. However, after I volunteered over the weekend, I realized that technology does not allow for people to network. Yes, of course they can network, but not initially. When creating new contacts by meeting new people who can further the opportunities of your future.... technology will never be a complete substitute.
Even with all of the great things technology does bring to my life, it does not allow me to make a new contact. This thought occurred after meeting several community members who work in my field of interest.
Anyhow, I realized that nothing is more imperative in the business world than conversation. And with that I mean a verbal conversation where two people meet for the first time and get to know each other's personality. All of the :) in the world will never amount to the raw potential of the influence one can make in a first impression.