Shoutout to a random vendor at a networking meetup

I was at a small entrepreneur mixer in Austin last month and this guy selling handmade leather journals just walked up and asked me what my biggest fear in business was. He listened for 10 minutes without interrupting or pitching his stuff, then just said 'keep going, you're closer than you think.' Has anyone else had a random stranger give them the exact push they needed at a networking event without wanting anything back?

2 comments

2 Comments

joseph5294h ago

Honestly I think that story sounds a little too perfect. Most vendors at networking events are trying to sell you something, not give you a free therapy session.

lane.angela39m ago

Isn't it funny how the most random interactions can feel more genuine than the ones we plan for? I've noticed that a lot in everyday life, not just at networking stuff. People are so busy trying to sell you something or prove themselves that they forget a simple, honest conversation can mean way more. That vendor probably didn't need anything from you, he just saw someone who needed a push and gave it. It reminds me of how we're always in a rush, but the best moments come when someone just pauses and actually listens. Maybe that's the real secret to networking - just being a decent human first.