"network" in the Dictionary of Corporate Bullshit

Browsing my new copy of The Dictionary of Corporate Bullshit by Lois Beckwith and just had to find out how she "defines" our (not) favorite word...

network 1. to pursue and create business contacts with the goal of fostering relationships both within and outside of your industry 2. to just "work it," with the hope that someone you meet will hook you up with a job someday; occurs at trade conventions, drinks after work, lunches, informational interviews, etc. 3. employees who network can be identified by their ability to seem fascinated by anyone who has a better job than they do, an aura that is irritatingly and apparently false to anyone who doesn't, and by the inch-thick wad of business cards they carry at all times and foist on their prey 4. those who network will get the job you want, the promotion you deserve, regardless of their qualifications; get used to it, or start doing it. See also kissing ass.

All tongue-in-cheek humor aside, number 4 is worth reading again. Because building relationships isn't just a nice thing to do, it's a must thing to do -- if you want that great job or promotion, that is.