🍸 Networking Without the Name Tag
There’s a certain type of networking event where you stand by the free cheese, balance a sweating cup of wine, and practice nodding while someone recites their job title like it’s a magic spell.
Here’s the thing: most career doors don’t open at those events. They swing open through casual contacts—the friend of a friend who thinks of you when something pops up.
The best part? You don’t have to work a room to find them.
📊 Data Hook
Fact: A Stanford + MIT study of 20M LinkedIn users found that “weak ties” (acquaintances, not close friends) were the most effective for landing new jobs (Time).
Translation: That old classmate, Slack contact, or Twitter mutual you occasionally like might be your next big lead. Those lighter connections expand your reach further than your inner circle ever could.
🛠 5 Ways to Grow Your Circle Without Showing Up
Comment With Substance
Skip “Congrats!” on someone’s post—add a specific thought, resource, or question. People remember contributors, not clappers.
Send the “Saw This, Thought of You” Note
Share an article, tool, or invite that connects to their work or interests. Small gestures = big goodwill.
Hang Out in Niche Spaces
Join a focused Slack, Discord, or LinkedIn group. Lurk first, then chime in once you know the rhythm.
Check In Periodically
Every 2–3 months, drop a light message to keep the connection warm. No agenda needed.
Ask for Opinions, Not Jobs
People enjoy sharing expertise, but a direct ask for work feels transactional. Start with advice and let things develop.
🤖 AI Tip of the Week
Use AI to break the ice without sounding generic.
Example: Paste a LinkedIn post into ChatGPT and ask:
“Draft a thoughtful one-line comment that adds value, not just applause.”
“Write a warm reintroduction message to an old coworker I haven’t spoken to in 2 years—casual but not salesy.”
AI won’t build the relationship, but it can kickstart the conversation.
🎯 Your Side Quest This Week
This week, reach out to two old contacts. Send something useful—an article, a podcast, or even a simple “Hey, thought of you.”
🎭 Culture Corner: Stay Connected
📄 Read: The Power of Weak Ties – Why the people you don’t talk to every day are often the ones who open the biggest doors.
🎧 Listen: Networking and the Strength of Weak Ties – This Working Life on why your weaker connections often end up shaping your career more than your inner circle.
📺 Watch: Networking Doesn't Have to Feel Gross – A TED talk on reframing networking as connection, not hustle.
🛠 Try: Lunchclub – An AI-powered tool for meeting like-minded professionals one-on-one online.
🛍️ Crew Picks: The Funemployed Store
Fall’s here, and it’s time to cozy up! Grab a hoodie from the Funemployed Store and stay warm while you work. 👉 Check it out
Your next opportunity might start with a simple “Hey, how’s it going?” Don’t underestimate the power of staying on someone’s mind.
Here’s to new connections—’til next week.
— The Funemployed Crew ✌️
🤫 Coming Up Next Week
Résumés get scanned. Websites get remembered. Learn how to turn your work into a simple one-pager that opens doors.