Networking 101-

11 Sept 2025

Today I attended my first businesswomen's networking event. Aside from the nightmare that was traffic on my drive there, it was an enjoyable opportunity to engage with other hardworking career women from around the area. Since I've admitted this was my first experience, obviously I don't run in this sort of circle often. That's what made the following exchange so surprising to me.

As I chatted with the various other ladies in attendence, what I saw first and foremost was passion. About their work, their lives, but mostly the desire to make other lives better. When I spoke with a veteran attendee, she asked about my business(es). When I told her about the very disconnected hats I wear for working (part time for a financial planning organization, editing, and assisting women who are trying to leave abusive situations), she looked me up and down, then said this:

'You want to help people.'

Yes. Yes, I do. I want to be the hand that reaches out to someone who feels unseen or less-than because I've lived there and it's not a nice place to call home. I was astounded at how quickly she was able to sum up my passion - but she was absolutely correct.

If you had to use just one expression to summarize your desired vocation, what would it be? Something to think about.

Federal Way, WA 98023