No, You Can’t Pick My Brain!

I read a great article by Forbes Contributor, Adrienne Graham, entitled “No You Can’t Pick My Brain. It Costs Too Much” and found its angle very intriguing, and yet humorous at the same time.

The article draws a line between networking with those who seek advice from peers because they are truly interested in the person and those who simply seek information to solve a problem or get ahead. Adrienne writes that the mission of those who she first thought were simply interested in her, actually were on a “mission to pick my brain to gather as much free intel and knowledge they need to make their jobs easier.”

I do, like Adrienne, find it very flattering to have others turn to me for direction and advice and don’t mind helping others in need; however, I had to start somewhere too. I attended courses, read books, studied and researched my way to where I am today. Nobody’s success is simply handed to them, and that’s the point of this article. I love having coffee with a person and chatting about advice, opinions and experiences, but networking should not be used as a means to overcome a problem. Work hard, research, and learn. Listen to all the advice that is given to you, but don’t rely on others to move you forward in your career. There is a line, and Adrienne outlines it very well.

Have a read of “No You Can’t Pick My Brain. It Costs Too Much” here