Monthly Archives: January 2010

By Malcolm Evans

Networking is an amorphous, yet highly important pillar of all societal interactions. Webster’s online dictionary defines networking as “the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions; specifically: the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business.” On the evening of December 7th, 2009, UMOJA, as a part of this year’s UMOJA Week, held a Networking Etiquette Workshop to help provide clarity around the concept of networking, while also sharing invaluable advice about appropriate networking behaviors. The workshop was hosted in Claudia-Cohen Hall’s Terrance room from 7:00-9:00pm.

The evening began with a presentation on attire and brand management lead by Whitney Dublin, college senior and president of ONYX Senior Honor Society. Whitney’s presentation covered topics such as examples of appropriate business attire for men and women as well the importance of maintaining a wholesome look in all professional settings. In addition to these topics, Ryan Jobson, a junior in the college and Correspondent for the UMOJA executive board, brought up the issue of African American hair in Corporate America. While there were various opinions surrounding acceptable corporate standards, the general consensus was that one’s hairstyle should be fairly “clean-cut” while also complimenting one’s personal appearance.
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