We live in a world where you can be connected to anyone with the click of a button; connecting online for millennials is not a problem. The problem is who do we talk to and engage with in-person?

I suggest pretty much everyone and anyone.

Millennials tend to shy away from in-person communication. A recent Pew Study found 30 percent of millennials will pretend to use their phone to avoid interacting with the people around them. As a millennial, I notice this every day, and in my opinion, it is one of the biggest mistakes my generation is making.

It has been said your network is your net worth, and who doesn’t want a high net worth? The guy sitting next to you at the bar could turn out to be your way to a more fulfilling job, the woman who cuts your hair could end up launching a million dollar product line and be your biggest client, the girl who serves you coffee at Starbucks every morning could become your best friend, you really just never know.

Taking the time to talk with people and exchange information is one of the most valuable ways to spend your time. Every person you come across will know something you don’t, and learning from people is priceless no matter what stage in life you’re in.

A local business owner recently visited the agency office to discuss launching a new product. We immediately recognized each other; he was a regular patron at a restaurant I once waitressed. Lucky for us, I was a very good and attentive waitress, and he was a very fair tipper.

And this is a perfect example of why it is so important to socialize and be friendly to everyone you meet. You just never know where they might appear in your life again.

Talk to people, ask questions and get to know the personalities behind the faces. You can never have too many friends.