Ok ok. NETWORKING & MARKETING

Networking:
Reach out and connect. Actively engage with *genuine* interest about their processes, successes, posts, troubles, goals, etc. Provide support, engage in discussions, celebrate wins. Build a professional relationship. BECOME A COLLEAGUE.

Marketing:
Reach out and connect. Provide VALUE that, in turn, results in hiring and work. Whether in the form of solving a pain point, opening up unforeseen opportunities, or collaborating as business partners, communicate with the intention of mutual financial benefit.

These are my definitions and my interpretations. I don't hold a business degree. But I know that networking is about connecting with people as people about people things. Marketing is about connecting with people as people about money and work.

LITERALLY AS I FINISHED TYPING THIS, someone from LinkedIn sent me a message. This one said "I noticed you have a podcast. I know editing audio can be a pain. I'm an audio editor. Would you like to chat about my services?"

THAT IS FINE. This person did research and identified--

my potential pain point. He is providing me with value. Thankfully, I already work with a wonderful audio editor and I don't have a need for his services. At the same time, THAT marketing message was appreciated because that intent provided me with a potential value.