Why do we pretend networking doesn’t matter until it’s too late?

Nobody tells you how much luck plays a role in career growth, but the real hack is making your own luck through weak ties. I’ve seen women get passed over for promotions because they only networked with their immediate team—while the guys who grabbed coffee with senior leaders (even when awkward) got the nod.

Started doing the same—hit up 2 random senior women in my field for 15-minute chats every month. Not asking for jobs, just advice. Two months later, a role opened up that wasn’t even posted. What’s your go-to networking move that actually works?