Last year, I attended a previously scheduled professional conference prior to leaving my last company.

I didn't network at all as I knew I was on my out. On the final day's lunch though I sat at a table with others which forced me to talk.

I got along great with everybody but especially ONE man. It wasn't the subjects we discussed or anything else. It's maybe best described as easy familiarity.

Reminder, in my profession across multiple employers and titles, is dominat
ed by men.

1/2

A few hours later I'm enjoying cocktails in the American Express Centurion Lounge.

So many people have a platinum AMEX, that the AMEX had to change rules on guests because the lounges are overcrowded. Such was the case this day when our paths crossed agan. We chatted a bit, exchanged contact info and that was it.

I did PING him afterward through my work email address as a professional follow-up.

Months have since passed.

2/3