A knowledge worker in search of information or answers to specific issues or problems has several possible alternatives at their disposal to attempt to find the right answers, and solve their problem.;)
Flickr - Thomas Hawk
Options:
1. Ask an internal colleague
2. Search the available company information databases or systems
3. 'Broadcast' a question to numerous other internal colleagues, or even the entire company
4. Google it
5. Leverage 'external' contacts, via e-mail, phone, or social networking
Lately, it seems like more and more I am turning to my 'external' networks, usually my Twitter friends, when I have a question, issue, or am looking for some opinion and feedback on issues that are not 'inside' in nature.
My question to you is : Who do you turn to when you are in need of information, or insight?
Do you find yourself asking your Twitter, Facebook, or other 'external' contacts more or less than your co-workers?
Are your 'external' contacts more important and vital to your success than your co-workers?
And finally, what should organizations be doing (if anything), if indeed many employees are relying on external contacts and social networks for answers and information?
Let me know your thoughts.