It's a strange thing, being back in a permanent job. The strangest part is how some people treat me differently. I don't think it's just that I radiate some more positive and confident aura, but for the simple fact that I may suddenly be useful in some people's view - whereas as a mom or temporary consultant I was not.
I've written about networks before, and that I value these. For me, it's not about someone's position or employment status, but about knowing people personally (and not just via email etc). No matter whether a student, intern or vice president, I'll keep people in my mind and contact lists if they were helpful - and most importantly - friendly. I like mentoring younger people, helping out colleagues - and more than anything appreciate such help that I have received myself in the past years.
But other people treat networks differently. There's an "active" network, which they use when people are in useful positions. And when not, well, then why bother even responding to emails etc. And suddenly, when the person is back in a useful position, it's all "oh hello, long time, was meaning to catch up...". I've experienced a few of these in the past week.
I'm happy to (re-)include them in my professional network. But they sure don't qualify for that more important network: friends.
So true!
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