I thought 'networking' was just a buzzword until I got my current job

For years, I rolled my eyes when people said to network... I figured my work should speak for itself. Then, after applying to over 50 jobs in Charlotte with no luck, a former coworker from my old cafe job heard they were hiring at her new office. She put in a word for me, and I got the interview that landed me this role. It wasn't about being fake at some event, it was just a real connection. Has anyone else had a simple, genuine contact make a huge difference like that?

3 comments

3 Comments

lopez.emery1mo ago

You're right that it's not about being fake. The word "networking" just has a bad vibe now. It makes people picture handing out business cards in a hotel ballroom. What you're describing is just being a decent person who keeps in touch. My old boss got me a freelance gig last year because I remembered his kid's birthday. It's just normal human stuff, not some career strategy.

knight.felix1mo ago

Ever think about why that word feels so gross? I used to treat networking like a chore, like I had to collect contacts like trophies. Your story about your old boss hits different though. It's not a transaction if you actually give a crap about the person. I guess I need to stop trying to "network" and just try to be a human who doesn't forget people exist after they stop being useful.

the_jana1mo ago

Honestly, just treat it like making a new friend at work.