Growing up, my parents always taught me the importance of walking with my head held high in confidence, but whether walking down the street or even sitting at a coffee shop, it seems that I am seeing more and more of the top of people’s heads.

But it isn’t because of some shyness or inward self-doubt, but because heads are bowed to the abstract world that can be held in the palm of a hand.

The effects of technology can be felt in almost every aspect of life, including the business world. Business organizations like the River Region Chamber of Commerce have also felt the effects of a technology saturated world.

The promise of being connected virtually to thousands of people seems much more convenient than driving to a networking event, but when it comes to social media, more often than not, the connections are about as strong as cell phone reception while going under the George Wallace Tunnel in Mobile.

In a world as busy as this one, the River Region Chamber of Commerce always goes by the idea of quality over quantity, and we encourage others to do the same.

Sure, the idea of instant communication and popular Facebook pages is sexy. It is hip. And honestly, it is important, but it will never be able to replace the value of real connection and communication between two people.

We are businessmen and businesswomen with long to-do lists and demanding schedules, but when it comes down to it, we are just that — men and women. We are people.

Posts can be shared simultaneously to Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter in less time than it takes to introduce yourself to one person, but when it comes to business, there are some things that the Chamber believes to be true.

A solid handshake is always more powerful than a Facebook like.

A personal connection will always have a more lasting impact than a page view.

And finally, when someone is looking to do business with someone they can trust, they will always remember a genuine face to face connection more than a face on screen.

Catherine Masters is a communications assistant with the River Region Chamber of Commerce. Contact her at communications@Riverregionchamber.org.