5.1 Theoretical Contributions
A key theoretical contribution relates to the
understanding of value as a multifaceted
phenomenon. Empirical findings show that value
manifests itself simultaneously as knowledge, social,
emotional and symbolic - forming a whole that goes
beyond the traditional economic or performance-
based value model. This broad interpretation
complements previous perspectives such as
(Rintamäki et al. 2007) and (Nahapiet & Ghoshal,
1998) by showing how these forms of value are
intertwined in members' experiences.
The study also clarifies the bidirectional nature of
value. Members are not only recipients but also
producers of value. Participation, knowledge sharing
and initiative develop both individuals and the
community, supporting renewal and relevance in a
changing context (Bowman & Ambrosini, 2000).
Perceived value is strongly linked to accessibility
and inclusion. For students and young professionals,
being able to contribute and be heard is central,
showing that participation is also a cultural and
symbolic process built on the experience of being
seen.
Value creation in professional networks depends
on adapting to demographic and technological
change. Intergenerational learning, digital tools and
silent knowledge help preserve and renew value,
making networks ecosystems where meanings,
identities and innovations are built.
5.2 Practical Implications
For professional networks to deliver value, they must
be accessible, inclusive and relevant across life
stages. Participation is often limited not by lack of
motivation but by structural, communicative and
cultural barriers. Identifying and addressing these is
essential for member experience and community
vitality.
Clear entry pathways are important to lower
barriers. New members should be offered concrete
ways to get involved, understand the network
structure and find their role. Contact persons,
orientation events and clear communication help
build an inclusive environment.
The flexibility of the forms of action supports
participation, especially when members have limited
time or experience of community practices. Project-
based tasks, low-commitment participation pathways
and digital channels allow everyone to participate
according to their own resources. This increases the
diversity of participants and allows even light
engagement to be transformed into longer-term
activity.
Mentoring and peer support should be part of
daily community life. For newcomers, mentoring
provides a safe entry and helps structure professional
growth while transferring silent knowledge. Reverse
mentoring, where younger members share expertise
such as digital skills, can also strengthen resilience
and learning culture.
An open and receptive atmosphere is a key
enabler. Communities should value diverse
perspectives and ensure equality and listening.
Belonging arises not from formal membership, but
from the sense that one’s voice matters.
At their best, professional networks can guide
entire sectors. By combining generational skills,
technological capabilities and shared values, they
foster innovation and support adaptation. This
requires strategy but above all everyday practices that
enable participation and shared responsibility.
REFERENCES
Alasoini, T., 2014. Learning from learning networks.
Experiences of the Finnish Workplace Development
Programme. International Journal of Action
Research, 10(3), p.310.
Badoer, E., Hollings, Y. and Chester, A., 2021. Professional
networking for undergraduate students: A scaffolded
approach. Journal of further and Higher
Education, 45(2), pp.197-210.
Belcher, M., 2015. The rise of the young
professionals. Professional Safety, 60(10), p.8.
Bowman, C. and Ambrosini, V., 2000. Value creation
versus value capture: towards a coherent definition of
value in strategy. British journal of management, 11(1),
pp.1-15.
Dirani, K., Baldauf, J., Medina-Cetina, Z., Wowk, K.,
Herzka, S., Bello Bolio, R., Gutierrez Martinez, V. and
Munoz Ubando, L.A., 2021. Learning organization as a
framework for networks’ learning and
collaboration. The Learning Organization, 28(4),
pp.428-443.
Dyer, J.H. and Singh, H., 1998. The relational view:
Cooperative strategy and sources of interorganizational
competitive advantage. Academy of management
review, 23(4), pp.660-679.
Grönroos, C. and Gummerus, J., 2014. The service
revolution and its marketing implications: service logic
vs service-dominant logic. Managing service
quality, 24(3), pp.206-229.
Haksever, C., Chaganti, R. and Cook, R.G., 2004. A model
of value creation: Strategic view. Journal of Business
Ethics, 49, pp.295-307.
Hallberg, N.L., 2017. What is value and how is it
managed?. Journal of Creating value, 3(2), pp.173-183.
Knopf, J.W., 2006. Doing a literature review. PS: Political
Science & Politics, 39(1), pp.127-132.