Relationships that produce opportunity.
WHY IT MATTERS
Most roles come through people, not applications.
WHAT NETWORKING IS NOT
Collecting contacts Asking strangers for jobs
WHAT IT ACTUALLY IS
Being known, over time, by people who do similar work.
HOW IT HAPPENS
Participating in communities Helping people with problems Doing visible work Staying in contact with former colleagues
WHY FORMER COLLEAGUES MATTER MOST
They have seen your work, and they move to other companies.
WHAT TO DO
Stay in occasional contact, without an ask attached.
WHAT COMMUNITIES EXIST
Local technology groups Online communities around technologies Professional bodies Events and conferences
WHAT TO DO IN THEM
Answer questions you can answer.
WHY THAT WORKS
Being visibly helpful is remembered.
WHAT NOT TO DO
Only appear when you need something Ask strangers for referrals immediately Treat every interaction as transactional
WHAT TO OFFER
Help, introductions, and attention.
WHY GIVING FIRST WORKS
Reciprocity is real, and it is remembered.
WHAT TO MAINTAIN
A record of people you know, and where they are.
WHAT TO DO ANNUALLY
Reach out to a few, with no agenda.
WHAT IT PRODUCES OVER YEARS
Opportunities that never reach advertisement.
