Will AI Replace Human Connections? | Business Networking, Mentorship, Women in Technology, Leadership
Wed Jan 28 2026
Sonya Barlow and Suzanne De Janasz explore the evolving landscape of business networking, mentorship, and the impact of technology on human connections. They discuss the importance of diverse networks, the role of technology in facilitating connections, and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation emphasizes the need for meaningful relationships in the workplace and the balance between giving and taking in networking. They also touch on future trends, including the integration of AI in networking and the return to in-person interactions.
Takeaways -
Successful individuals often have multiple mentors throughout their careers.Diversity in mentorship is crucial for a well-rounded perspective.Technology has democratized networking but can lead to superficial connections.In-person interactions foster deeper relationships than online ones.Networking should focus on creating meaningful connections, not just expanding numbers.COVID-19 has changed the way we connect, emphasizing the need for human interaction.Quality of connections is more important than quantity in networking.AI can assist in networking but should not replace genuine human interaction.The workplace is evolving with a focus on work-life balance and mental well-being.Future networking will likely blend technology with a return to personal connections.---------------------
Sonya Barlow is an award winning technology entrepreneur, business author and presenter, writing her second book with Bloomsbury International on the New Rules of Business Networking, Human Connections in Technology and The Future of Work. You can find her work via her website www.sonyabarlow.co.uk
Suzanna is an affiliate professor at the London Business School.
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Keywords: business networking, mentorship, technology, human connections, COVID-19, workplace trends, AI, social media, professional growth, leadership, professional networking, mentoring, LMF Network, Workfluencer, Workfluencer Wednesday, Sonya Barlow Podcast
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Sonya Barlow and Suzanne De Janasz explore the evolving landscape of business networking, mentorship, and the impact of technology on human connections. They discuss the importance of diverse networks, the role of technology in facilitating connections, and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation emphasizes the need for meaningful relationships in the workplace and the balance between giving and taking in networking. They also touch on future trends, including the integration of AI in networking and the return to in-person interactions. Takeaways - Successful individuals often have multiple mentors throughout their careers.Diversity in mentorship is crucial for a well-rounded perspective.Technology has democratized networking but can lead to superficial connections.In-person interactions foster deeper relationships than online ones.Networking should focus on creating meaningful connections, not just expanding numbers.COVID-19 has changed the way we connect, emphasizing the need for human interaction.Quality of connections is more important than quantity in networking.AI can assist in networking but should not replace genuine human interaction.The workplace is evolving with a focus on work-life balance and mental well-being.Future networking will likely blend technology with a return to personal connections.--------------------- Sonya Barlow is an award winning technology entrepreneur, business author and presenter, writing her second book with Bloomsbury International on the New Rules of Business Networking, Human Connections in Technology and The Future of Work. You can find her work via her website www.sonyabarlow.co.uk Suzanna is an affiliate professor at the London Business School. -------------------------- Keywords: business networking, mentorship, technology, human connections, COVID-19, workplace trends, AI, social media, professional growth, leadership, professional networking, mentoring, LMF Network, Workfluencer, Workfluencer Wednesday, Sonya Barlow Podcast