Networking — The strength of weak ties

Your next opportunity is more likely to come from someone you barely know than from a close friend. Mark Granovetter proved this in 1973. Close friends share your world. Acquaintances connect you to different worlds. These "weak ties" bridge separate networks and carry information that would not reach you otherwise.

• Networking is not collecting contacts. It is building relationships where both sides gain value. Offer before you ask.
• Talk to people outside your usual group. Join a club, attend a talk, volunteer. Each new connection extends your reach.