The Networking Mission: How to Build a "Coalition of the Willing"
We’ve all been told that "it’s not what you know, it’s who you know." But for many job seekers—especially those transitioning from the structured world of the military—networking feels like "schmoozing." It feels transactional, awkward, and, frankly, un-strategic. To gain the Workforce Advantage , you have to stop "networking" and start building a Coalition of the Willing . In a coalition, every member is there because they share a common objective or see mutual value. Your goal isn't to collect business cards; it’s to identify the stakeholders who believe in your "Utility." 1. Identify Your Strategic Stakeholders In a military operation, you don't just talk to everyone; you identify the key players: Intelligence, Logistics, and Command. Your career search is no different. You need three types of people in your coalition: The Scouts: People currently working in the roles or companies you desire. They have the "ground truth." ...
