Unprotected Contacts Connected
I’m new to LA, and new to the job search and those two elements make a sadness sandwich. Don’t get me wrong - new experiences are not sad. My new city is exciting. My job search is a wishing well in which to throw resumes.
What’s sad is networking. Not meeting people and talking to them, not the sending of emails and arranging for advice to be given and questions to be asked.
It’s the feeling of guilt that you have nothing to offer in return.
When I call someone and say,”I’m new to LA. Can you give me some advice on breaking into X and doing Y?”
And they say, ”Sure. Do Z and A and B and never do C because that’s where people do coke till their eyes bleed and everyone is on fire. Classic C, ha ha.”
I get to say: “Thanks.”
Then they say, “No problem.” Then I have to pretend that when I get things going, that I will help them, and then we will all laugh on our mutually built gold-plated yacht about how I asked for advice and it all worked out.
This article here pretty much explains my fears about networking. I realize it’s a necessary evil, and god-bless all who help slobs like me, but there must be a way to do this and not feel like I need to take a shame-shower afterwards.
