start networking

the word "networking" makes most people cringe. it conjures images of awkward conferences, forced handshakes, and people shoving business cards at you while their eyes scan the room for someone more important. fair enough. that version of networking sucks.

but that's not what real networking is.

the hidden job market

studies consistently show that 70-80% of jobs are filled through connections, not applications. the best opportunities -- the ones that never make it to a job board -- flow through networks. the freelance gig, the partnership, the referral, the "hey, i know someone who'd be perfect for this" -- all network effects.

if you're not building connections, you're competing for the 20% of opportunities that everyone else is scrambling for. that's a crowded, disadvantaged position to be in.

how to network without hating yourself

forget the gross transactional approach. real networking is just being genuinely interested in other people and maintaining those relationships over time.

• attend one event: a meetup, conference, alumni gathering, or industry event. you don't have to talk to everyone. find one person you genuinely click with and have a real conversation
• create a linkedin profile that doesn't suck: not a resume dump. a human profile that shows who you are and what you care about. connect with people you've actually met
• join a group: find a meetup or community organized around something you're interested in. shared interest makes connection natural instead of forced
• follow up: this is where 90% of people fail. you meet someone interesting and then never reach out again. send a message within 48 hours. reference something specific from your conversation. suggest a coffee or a call

the long game

networking isn't about immediate payoffs. it's about building a web of genuine relationships so that when opportunity knocks -- or when you need help -- you have people who know you, trust you, and want to help.

the best time to build your network was five years ago. the second best time is this week.

your move

this week, do one thing: attend an event, reach out to an old contact, or set up your linkedin properly. just one step. then do another one next week. compound interest applies to relationships too.

who you know determines what doors open. start opening them.

if this resonated, share it with someone who needs to hear it.