Unspoken rules of networking

5 rules — each one links to the scenario that teaches it.

A clean exit at a networking event signals social competence, not rudeness.

Pre-interview small talk isn't on the rubric but accounts for most of the gut feeling.

"Pick your brain" from someone senior is almost never just curiosity — it's a low-commitment audition.

First-week small talk is an audition — the new hire is mapping who's safe.

Toxic positivity after layoffs is a way of making yourself feel better, not them.

More unspoken rules