Does Networking Culture Vary Geographically?

I spoke for a PortlandConnect event last night. This group is an extension of a Linked In group who want to connect face to face.

The organizers of this event, Ken Wagner, Liz du Toit, and Stephanie Sanford talked at length about the Portland networking culture.  A couple of characteristics came up…

1. The quantity of networking activities.  Portland Metro seems to have a preponderance of networking events at any given time both on and off line.
2. The quality of people networking.  Wherever you go you are guaranteed to encounter some of Portland’s Super Connectors.  People who connect people and opportunites and follow up.

This discussion totally set me up for my brief presentation on the “Secrets of Super Connectors”.   After polling the room, the group consensus was that Super Connecting is not just a personality style some are born with but rather, a skill that can be learned. 

1. Do you believe networking culture varies geographically?  If so, why?
2. Do you think super networking can be learned?

I’d like to hear your thoughts on these two questions at the close of this blog post. 

In the meantime…Happy Networking!