Strategic networking vs. picking your brain

After my post about "brain-picking" was shared widely:

I realized I needed to clarify something important: YES, protect your time. YES, value your expertise.

But there's a massive difference between random "pick your brain" requests and STRATEGIC networking opportunities.

Here's what I've learned about using your calendar wisely: The key isn't avoiding all conversations — it's assessing each opportunity.

That potential client call? Worth it.

The industry leader who wants to connect? Absolutely.

Someone wanting free advice with no clear value exchange? That's where you pass.

You should absolutely be activating and nurturing your network.

You should not be giving away your time to people who have no intention of a mutual exchange.

The sweet spot? 

Strategic calendar management that prioritizes your deep work AND creates space for high-value connections. Growth happens when you're intentional about WHO gets access to your time and WHY.

Ready to master strategic networking while protecting your boundaries? 

Ready to grow your business, while protecting your time and resources?

I can help.

Let's make your calendar work FOR your growth, not against it. 

And now this week’s hot jobs!

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Hot Jobs

Aquent is looking for a Freelance Designer with healthcare/pharma experience and a strong background in marketing or PR agency environments. You’ll work within their Health group to support concept development, comp creation, and presentation design across a range of 360° campaigns. Pay isn’t listed.

3nStar, Inc. is looking for a skilled Embedded Android Developer to help them create a custom Android OS for their POS terminals without Google Mobile Services (GMS). You’ll work closely with their product and hardware teams to deliver a firmware solution that meets their requirements. Pays up to $32/hour.

Lone Rock Point is looking for Freelance Web Content Creators to handle the production of landing pages, articles, and other web content to tell the stories of their client and ensure the integrity of the content before it is published to the public. Pay isn’t listed. Pitch away!

Databento is seeking a Freelance Legal and Technical Copy Editor to help with editing technical financial content. The ideal candidate has experience editing complex financial or regulatory material and can ensure accuracy, consistency, and clarity across all entries. Pay isn’t listed — pitch your rate!

Global Home Care Lead is seeking a Grant Writer to help them secure funding that will directly support fair caregiver wages, workforce retention, and expanded access to home care for underserved clients. Pays up to $30/hour for no more than 20 hours/week.

ROSA: Women in Power & Politics Magazine is a bold, bi-partisan publication. As they launch their new website, they’re seeking Freelance Writers with a strong understanding of U.S. politics and a proven ability to write with clarity, fairness, and insight. Pays up to $470/month.

Suddenly Senior is hiring freelance talent across multiple roles — Freelance Writers, Editors, Researchers & Creators — to help grow their trusted platform for older adults. They’re America’s go-to site for senior lifestyle, retirement tips, humor, and practical guidance. Pays up to $40/hour.

Cella is seeking experienced Freelancer Proofreaders/Editors to support a surge in work volume during the busiest season (September-October). This role plays a key part in producing high-quality materials and communications for clients in the insurance industry. Pays up to $30/hour.

XDA is looking for a Gaming Editor to join their team! This role involves both writing and editorial leadership. You’ll guide a small team of writers, manage editorial workflows, and make sure the section consistently publishes engaging gaming content. Candidates must reside within a few hours of EST.

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Cheers - 

Samantha & Andrea