# The Transformative Power of Networking: A Personal Journey
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Chapter 1: Understanding Networking
Networking is often misperceived, especially by those who dread it. Initially, I viewed it as a superficial process, merely a means to collect contacts and information. It felt like a chore—just listing names, jobs, and numbers, only to forget them later. But my perception shifted dramatically when I realized its true potential.
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Not convinced that networking is for you? Check out this insightful article!
The Discomfort of Early Networking
Attending career fairs during my college years was daunting. It resembled a chaotic marketplace dominated by major corporations like Microsoft and Google. Though I left with plenty of promotional items, the experience felt hollow.
As graduation loomed, anxiety crept in, leading me to behave in ways that felt out of character. Networking became synonymous with forced interactions aimed solely at securing a job, client, or funding. This was my belief until I encountered Gustas Varnagys, who transformed my understanding of networking.
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The Eye-Opening Encounter
I first met Gustas on TwiX, where he shared engaging insights about life and content creation. During a live discussion, I was impressed by his energy and enthusiasm. We decided to connect further, and that conversation was a game-changer.
From the moment I saw him on screen, his zest for life was infectious. He reminded me of Oaken from “Frozen” with his cheerful demeanor. Gustas was not only engaging but also expressive, which encouraged me to break free from my previously reserved communication style.
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The Awakening
That call transformed how I interacted with others. I learned to communicate more animatedly, whether at work or home. It completely reshaped my view of networking.
Networking now means asking questions to understand others' journeys, building relationships over time, and finding ways to support one another. It’s about genuine connections rather than merely accumulating contacts.
It’s not about:
- Increasing direct messages
- Posting more frequently
- Sending out countless resumes
- Collecting free business cards
Instead, it’s essential to focus on the “why” behind every interaction. The relationships I have built through platforms like TwiX and Medium have been invaluable, and my initial conversation with Gustas highlighted the importance of finding common ground.
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Chapter 2: The Impact of Genuine Connections
The video titled "IT ALL COMES CRASHING DOWN | The Social Experiment S2 E5" delves into the dynamics of social interactions and the importance of forging authentic connections. It highlights how genuine relationships can lead to personal and professional growth.
Photo by Giorgio Trovato on Unsplash
I’m the Night Writer, documenting my discoveries as I navigate the world of content creation. Join my weekly newsletter for insights as I continue this journey!