Description:
At work, should I invest time in building a wide network of casual professional contacts (weak ties) or concentrate on a small number of deep friendships with colleagues? Please explain practical trade-offs in terms of job opportunities, promotions, emotional support, confidentiality and risk, and resilience when switching employers. What strategies help balance breadth and depth so I get career benefits without burning out or oversharing?
1 Answer
For careers the trade off is clear. Many weak ties give more job leads, market info and quick referrals, while a few deep friends offer sponsorship, candid feedback and emotional backing. Weak ties boost resilience when switching employers because they span teams and companies. Few deep bonds help promotions and confidential coaching, but carry risk if loyalties shift or gossip spreads. Emotional support favors depth. Confidential matters need trusted allies only.
To balance, casually network broadly with short, regular touches like LinkedIn notes and 20 minute coffees, while keeping two or three trusted colleagues for real talk. Set boundaries, avoid sharing sensitive details early, and spread your network across levels and functions. Little rituals and tiny time budgets keep you from burning out.
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