the final say: Dad didn't network

摘要

I am an engineer. There are traits common to many of this profession. I always pick vertically striped wallpaper. When hanging pictures, the only options are to align the tops, the bottoms, or (preferably) the centers on a line parallel to the floor or stairs. I tend to feel uncomfortable walking up and starting a conversation with total strangers. A number of years ago, I attended a three-day vendor's conference. I knew a few names from phone calls to technical service, but otherwise, I really knew no one else in attendance. During an evening reception, I gathered a plate of shrimp, cocktail sauce, and a few other finger-food items, stood near a wall, and watched the crowd. When the shrimp were gone, I got a drink and meandered about then returned to my room. At the end of the three days, I had spoken more in break-out sessions (asking questions) than I had all the rest of the time combined. At work, I can talk for hours on end, but in a room full of strangers...