One of the reason's I have always limited the amount of times I spend blogging or getting involved in social internet services is to avoid not having "my ear to the ground".  I can certainly understand the valuable tool that the internet social networks provides.  Moreover, the valuable information that is available to all of us using such sites as ERE and etc.  However, I cannot express to you how important it is to remember that today�??s world of technology cannot substitute for the ability to pick up the phone and make a call.

To many times I find recruiters and sourcing professionals alike using the internet and social networking in order to avoid the "pain" of the phone call.  No matter how you slice it, making personal connections is the key to finding and cultivating real business opportunities.  In order to make these connections, one must PICK UP THE PHONE AND MAKE A CALL. 

So, when I ask, "Do you have your ear to the ground", I am referring to the understanding that you must "speak to your customers and your candidates" in order to truly understand the void you are attempting to fill.  Emails rarely have personality; social networking can only connect you through technology not personally.  However, if used wisely, the phone can be your best friend.

It is a human rule that in general, people work with people they like and connect to.  Do yourself a favor, pick up the phone and make a connection with someone.  Make it about trying to understand their needs and less about the financial outcome.  Keep your "ear to the ground" by reading your daily ERE but relaying heavily on your ability to connect with another human using the phone.