I think this is quite important in making networking less “icky”. It’s much easier for me to talk to people when I’m not constantly thinking about how to get something from them.
Some of the more valuable or meaningful networking I have done (with non-EAs) has been when I can just talk about my interests and career goals honestly. I think people respect and appreciate genuine passion and commitment when they see it. (That doesn’t mean you should talk their ear off with EA stuff, you just need to tell them enough so they have context)
Re: your point on sincerity:
I think this is quite important in making networking less “icky”. It’s much easier for me to talk to people when I’m not constantly thinking about how to get something from them.
Some of the more valuable or meaningful networking I have done (with non-EAs) has been when I can just talk about my interests and career goals honestly. I think people respect and appreciate genuine passion and commitment when they see it. (That doesn’t mean you should talk their ear off with EA stuff, you just need to tell them enough so they have context)