Networking is a large topic, which has a simple premise at its heart. The essence of networking is the establishment and development of relationships that give mutual benefit. In pharmacy there is so much experience, knowledge and skills to be shared with others. Whether that is helping a newly qualified pharmacist find their feet or tapping into expert knowledge and advice to help you build your knowledge and practice.

The opportunities are there and hopefully when someone mentions the word 'networking' you won't cringe, but instead see an opportunity to achieve not only your goals but also derive the simple pleasure in knowing that you have helped others achieve their goals too.

Sharing information is key the process. One of the most significant developments of recent years is the use of online opportunities and access to virtual communities. For the younger generation this is now the norm, but others will need to learn how to use the range of online tools and opportunities. To start you may wish to try the following:

Your professional body. The Royal Pharmaceutical Society has a wide range of online groups and forums similar to the social networking sites so beloved by our children, but set in a professional context (www.rpharms.com). These are easily accessible to all members in any geographical location and have been specifically designed to help you to:

• Network with other pharmacists who share similar interests
• Share information, ideas and best practice
• Find others within your local area
• Search for relevant networking or development events
• Join specialist interest groups.

Business networking. There are many social networking sites, but for true business networking LinkedIn stands out. It is an excellent networking tool for both career and business development and is very easy to use and get started with. LinkedIn has many useful features and benefits: www.linkedin.co.uk

Forums and blogs. A blog is somewhere to display your ideas and opinions, whereas a forum is where you share things with others. Both are helpful for different purposes. Forums tend to run a particular theme and are typically part of a wider website.