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Cass Thompson reframes networking as building authentic professional relationships that create mutual opportunities, not collecting business cards or forcing transactional conversations at mixers. She argues most networking is follow-up with people you’ve already met, and the awkwardness mainly comes from first interactions, so she recommends embracing that discomfort and even reframing nerves as excitement. For one-on-one coffees or lunches, she suggests preparing a few simple small-talk questions to ease the transitional moments and build trust. For events, she advises remembering others are also new, using a brief burst of bravery to join a group, and entering with a straightforward, slightly vulnerable line asking to join the conversation. She warns against “rushing the ask,” encourages patient follow-up, and highlights “dormant ties” as a powerful networking resource.00:00 Why Networking Feels Awkward00:15 What Networking Really Is02:33 Embrace the Awkward Mindset04:22 One-on-One Small Talk Prep07:46 Mixers and Event Openers10:29 Stop Rushing the Ask12:47 Use Dormant Ties Instead13:49 Recap and Next StepsSHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendationSHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradviceSPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️Contact: [email protected]://www.cassthompson.com/speakerINFO 🌟Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsultingABOUTThis isn’t your grandpa’s networking.What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships?What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you?At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships.When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot!DISCLOSURE 🌟Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers.

Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connectionYou've seen them. The camera already set up when she walks in the door. The candle. The wine glass. The caption: "Friday night, no plans, no friends, and I'm happy about it."And honestly? I get why they're going viral.But I also live alone. I work for myself. And I know what this actually looks like — including the Tuesday I ended up at the Whole Foods coffee bar just to be around other humans.In this episode, I'm not here to shame the creators making this content or the people watching it. I get it. But I do think we're missing something important in this conversation — because loneliness isn't just a vibe. It's a health issue. And romanticizing it isn't the same as solving it.We talk about:Why the loneliness epidemic is real, even if someone told you it isn'tThe difference between making the best of a lonely season vs. justifying itSocial health — the third pillar of health nobody is trackingWhy connection is harder now than it was in your 20s (and it's not your fault)What you can actually do, starting today, even if your calendar is empty📖 The Cut article referenced in this episode: https://www.thecut.com/article/loneliness-influencers-on-tiktok-make-introversion-videos.html00:00 Whole Foods Loneliness01:22 Loneliness Influencers Trend03:58 Social Health Matters07:28 Why Loneliness Happens09:03 Work and Remote Isolation10:46 Friends Pairing Off12:13 Costly Socializing15:45 Comfort vs Connection19:03 Practical Steps to Connect23:05 Final EncouragementSHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendationSHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradviceSPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️Contact: [email protected]://www.cassthompson.com/speakerINFO 🌟Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsultingABOUTThis isn’t your grandpa’s networking.What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships?What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you?At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships.When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot!DISCLOSURE 🌟Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers.

Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connectionCass Thompson argues that while it’s good the stigma around doing activities solo has faded, culture has shifted toward defaulting to alone even for experiences designed for community00:00 Have We Overcorrected00:16 Solo Disney Trend01:42 Why Together Matters02:22 Convenience And Comfort03:38 Solo Economy Rising05:14 Better With People06:18 Loneliness Costs07:46 When Solo Works08:26 Reclaim Together09:33 Final ChallengeSHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendationSHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradviceSPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️Contact: [email protected]://www.cassthompson.com/speakerINFO 🌟Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsultingABOUTThis isn’t your grandpa’s networking.What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships?What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you?At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships.When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot!DISCLOSURE 🌟Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers.

Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connectionHost Cass Thompson gives thoughts on why awkwardness isn't something to avoid, and the two routes you can go to make friends as an adult. 00:00 Embrace Awkwardness01:38 Two Reactions to Awkward02:33 Two Starting Points03:27 Stop Waiting Invite First05:04 Follow Up and Schedule05:59 Reach Out Anytime07:03 Create Standing Hangouts08:41 Starting From Scratch Basics10:24 Regular Activities and Initiate12:14 Be Open to Different Fits14:24 Initiate Follow Through15:38 Final Challenge and WrapSHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendationSHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradviceSPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️Contact: [email protected]://www.cassthompson.com/speakerINFO 🌟Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsultingABOUTThis isn’t your grandpa’s networking.What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships?What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you?At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships.When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot!DISCLOSURE 🌟Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers.

Get the Confidently Connect On-Demand Workshop: https://www.cassthompson.com/connectworkshopCass explores why making genuine friends as an adult—especially after 30—feels so difficult, arguing the biggest barriers are the 3 C’s. 00:00 Why Adult Friends Fade01:07 Three Silent Killers01:28 Convenience Killed Friction05:15 Customization And Algorithms09:21 Comfort Trap And Avoidance13:26 Self-Care Became Solo15:54 When Effort Still Fails19:13 Are You Doing The Work20:39 What Actually Works24:26 Final EncouragementSHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendationSHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradviceSPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️Contact: [email protected]://www.cassthompson.com/speakerINFO 🌟Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsultingABOUTThis isn’t your grandpa’s networking.What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships?What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you?At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships.When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot!DISCLOSURE 🌟Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers.

Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connectionCass Thompson breaks down the “soft socializing” trend from Eventbrite’s 2026 Social Study, describing low-pressure, activity-based community events where socializing is optional and often a byproduct. 00:00 Introduction02:59 The Good09:03 What's Missing12:38 Takeaways14:56 The ConcernsSHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendationSHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradviceSPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️Contact: [email protected]://www.cassthompson.com/speakerINFO 🌟Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsultingABOUTThis isn’t your grandpa’s networking.What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships?What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you?At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships.When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot!DISCLOSURE 🌟Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers.

Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 Cassandra Thompson ties National Friendship Month to practical ways to strengthen friendships through five types of gatherings, from high-maintenance, “Insta-worthy” hosted events (like themed spreads, coffee bars, and dinner parties) to lower-lift options like plug-and-play parties, recurring clubs, and standing appointments. She emphasizes that consistent time together builds bonds and argues for reviving “casual hangs” (simple, low-pressure time together) as an overlooked but effective way to connect, noting proximity can make them easier and that these ideas can apply in work settings too. 00:00 Friendship Month Kickoff 00:22 Why Gatherings Matter 01:46 The High Maintenance Hang 04:13 Type 4 07:14 Type 3 08:50 Type 2 12:34 Type 1 (with a rant!) 15:32 More Ideas 16:38 Proximity and Real Life Limits 17:39 Wrap Up and Call to Action SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: [email protected] https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot! DISCLOSURE 🌟 Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers. Thank you for supporting this channel!

Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection

Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20  Cassandra reflects on a story about adult friendship and how modern schedules and convenience can take priority over showing up for people who need support. She explains what a “village” is, why most people need community beyond just immediate family, and how shared structures (like work or church) only create proximity unless individuals choose to participate. She then offers a four-part framework for being a more reliable, reciprocal person in others’ lives: following through on commitments, making time even when it’s inconvenient while still using healthy boundaries, being willing to ask for help instead of outsourcing everything (including relying on AI for emotional support), and initiating connection rather than waiting to be invited. She closes with practical challenges for the week and previews a future episode about different types of get-togethers. Time codes: 00:00 Esquire story + the “village vs villager” problem 05:30 What a village is and why it matters 10:10 Four-part framework overview 11:00 Keeping commitments and following through 24:30 Making time, inconvenience, and boundaries 36:40 Asking for help vs outsourcing (including AI) 52:00 Initiating invitations and simple ways to connect 1:02:00 Weekly challenge, recap, and next episode preview SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: [email protected] https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot! DISCLOSURE 🌟 Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers. Thank you for supporting this channel!

Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 In this episode of Creating Opportunities, host Cassandra Thompson delves into the often-overlooked secret to a fulfilling career: genuine friendships at work. Drawing from personal experiences and empirical evidence, Cassandra highlights how forming real connections with coworkers can significantly boost job satisfaction, reduce stress, enhance collaboration, and provide long-term career benefits. Throughout the episode, she offers actionable strategies for building and nurturing these friendships, such as sharing relatable anecdotes, offering genuine help, and remembering to follow up on personal details. With February being National Friendship Month, this episode is dedicated to encouraging professionals to be more intentional about fostering connections and creating a supportive, enjoyable work environment. 00:00 My Journey to a Happier Work Life 00:45 The Secret to a Fulfilling Career 01:34 The Importance of Work Friendships 02:15 Overcoming the Stigma of Work Friendships 03:42 The Benefits of Having Friends at Work 05:54 How to Create a Friendly Workplace 07:53 Three Actions to Build Trust and Relatability 13:55 The Power of Small Actions 15:00 Conclusion and Call to Action SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: [email protected] https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot! DISCLOSURE 🌟 Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers. Thank you for supporting this channel!

Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection The Villainization of Friendliness: Why Building Connections at Work Is Crucial In this episode of Creating Opportunities, Cassandra Thompson discusses the growing trend of villainizing friendliness in the workplace. She argues that advice discouraging interpersonal interactions, like stopping by a coworker's desk, ultimately fosters a cold and isolated work environment. The episode addresses three main areas—treatment of extroverts, prioritizing efficiency over humanity, and advice discouraging initiation—emphasizing that those who initiate connections are vital for a positive work culture. Cassandra also provides actionable steps for leaders to build a more friendly and connected workplace. 00:00 Introduction: The Problem with Modern Workplace Advice 00:59 The Stigma Around Friendliness at Work 02:02 Podcast Introduction and National Friendship Month 03:20 Villainizing Extroverts in the Workplace 06:16 Efficiency vs. Humanity 08:43 Discouraging Initiation and Connection 14:03 Creating a Culture of Friendliness 16:25 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: [email protected] https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot! DISCLOSURE 🌟 Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers. Thank you for supporting this channel!