Based on the readings from this week, networking using social media entails finding opportunities that match our skill set, connecting with like-minded individuals, and developing connections for new learning and skill development situations. By having social media as a platform for networking and future work support, individuals are empowered to use their unique qualities to both learn and collaborate with others with the same goals or with those who can help them achieve said goals. Through different factors, we are motivated to participate in networked publics based on professional and non-formal interests, needs, and commonalities. Rajagopal et al (2011) highlight how an individual seeks to look for common interests, organizations, or connections with individuals based on “certain immediate professional needs”, which are led by forming personal attachments to create or maintain trusted relationships and environments for which individuals can expand their networks, and therefore their skills and overall value. This highlights how there are many benefits to one’s involvement in public networks and communications. This includes tools to thrive in new environments, enhancing levels of communication, identifying individuals or communities to improve our learning, and strengthening delicate relationships. However, with these rewards, one must consider the risks of being involved openly in public discourse. This brings up the issue of security and being grouped indiscriminately as a unit rather than as a unique individual. The “Surveillance & Society – Networked Privacy (2012)” reading brought up the issue of how machines interpret us and our value on public networks. Data, preferences, and actions can be grouped to form an image of the individual based on others’ habits and activities, erasing individuality and controlling the image or persona portrayed online. These factors and risks highlight the importance of networking to communicate interests and needs as well as promote growth and development, however, one must be cautious of the effects that technology and networks have on an ever-growing and fast-paced online and in-person community.