SJ Longthorne

Really useful advice! I must argue that I really don’t like the « make friends in the industry » as it will definitely scare a lot of people — networking is NOT making friends.

I disagree :) I think when we think of networking as shaking hands in suits, it’s cold and scary and all about using people. When we think of it as making friends, it’s warm and achievable and about supporting one another.

That's my take, too.

I’m not OK with this because it will definitely scare some people away. Networking, in my mind, is about sharing, giving back, helping out. You shouldn’t have to drink a pint with someone. Friends = personal in my mind. I could be wrong.

I think we have seen enough awful or terrible stories recently of how friendly networking can turn into a nightmare. Three days ago a company who has illegally used young artists work had a big party and people went to « network » and it is not OK in my book.

I think this just makes me sad because I know people I’ve met through work or through the industry who I guess I technically networked with but now I consider them friends, and I’m hope they’d think the same of me.

Also I think your example there needs more clarification... I’m unsure what you’re getting at re: the connection between a shitty company decision and a networking party?

The company is Chucklefish :/ I think no one should be feeling forced to go to a party, or to meet in these kinds of events for a lot of different reasons.