The Power of Networking

In this candid episode of Highly Adaptive, Jeff Pelliccio and Erin McKenzie tackle the lost art of professional networking, revealing why most people are getting it completely wrong. Opening with their own connection story (spoiler: neither can remember exactly when they met, yet feel like they've known each other forever), they explore what authentic networking really means in today's transactional world.

The hosts confront the generational divide head-on—where older professionals view networking as relationship-building while younger generations often treat it like a vending machine for immediate needs. Through personal examples and hard truths, Jeff and Erin dissect why networking has become so misunderstood and how to fix it.

Drawing from real scenarios (including the red leaf lettuce grocery store analogy that perfectly illustrates networking gone wrong), they provide a framework for building genuine professional relationships that actually matter. The conversation gets practical with specific tips on everything from LinkedIn authenticity to the power of follow-up, culminating in Erin's challenge to sit alone at a diner and strike up a conversation with a stranger.

For anyone who's ever felt uncomfortable networking or wondered why their connections aren't yielding results, this episode delivers the mindset shift needed to transform networking from a necessary evil into a career superpower.

Whether you're an extrovert who needs to add more depth to your connections or an introvert looking for structured approaches to relationship building, Jeff and Erin provide the framework for authentic professional networking that actually works.

Key Takeaways

Networking is Professional Friendship – It's about genuine human connection with purpose, not a vending machine for immediate needs

Transparency Beats Manipulation – Don't ask "are you free this weekend?" to set up a moving request—be authentic about what you need

The Top 10 Test – If you only had 10 phone spots, who would make the cut? Focus your networking energy there first

Follow Up on Outcomes – Don't just say thanks—share how their advice helped and offer reciprocal support

Audit Yourself – Are you a generous networker or a selfish one? The answer determines your network's strength

The Diner Challenge – Practice networking by sitting alone at a bar or diner and starting conversations with strangers

Sponsors

Allied Insight - The Preferred Marketing Partner of Staffing and Consulting Businesses
Building authentic connections requires authentic marketing. Allied Insight helps staffing firms create genuine brand relationships that turn prospects into partners and connections into revenue.

All Things Staffing - Expert Resources for the Staffing Community
Your destination for insights that matter. From networking strategies to industry trends, All Things Staffing provides the knowledge base that keeps leaders connected and informed.