Real Tips, Myths, and Red Flags in Networking

Following our 2nd annual AGBO After Hours event—hosted with Warner Bailey, founder of Assistants Vs. Agents—we caught up with industry assistants on what really works for networking.

"Young professionals working in Entertainment rarely get the chance to attend the types of events their bosses get access to (let alone have events built for them), but AGBO and Assistants vs. Agents are setting out to change that." emphasized Warner.

*Warner Bailey (center) with AGBO Marketing team*

AGBO After Hours was your chance to leave your boss on read and finally mingle with people who get it! From favorite ways to connect to the biggest corporate red flags they’ve learned to spot, here’s what they had to say.

1. Top Ways to Build Genuine Connections

AGBO assistants have nailed down a few tried-and-true ways to network effectively:

Collaborative Work Projects: Some of the best connections are built by working together. Dive into cross-departmental projects—shared experiences like these build trust in ways that one-time networking events can’t.
Volunteering at Industry Events: Instead of just attending events, try volunteering. Being behind the scenes helps you meet industry players in a natural setting and leaves a memorable impression.
Skill-Building Classes and Workshops: If networking events aren’t your thing, try a skill-building class, like improv or a writing boot camp. You’ll meet like-minded people and gain relevant skills—no forced “networking” needed.
Alumni Networks: Don’t sleep on your alumni network. College and past workplace alumni groups can open doors to mentorship and advice from people who’ve been exactly where you are.

2. Networking Myths to Ditch for Good

Some classic networking “rules” just don’t hold up. Here’s what assistants suggest ignoring:

Myth: “Networking is only for people in your industry.”
Some of the best insights and opportunities come from outside your field. Different industries bring fresh perspectives and can connect you to people you wouldn’t otherwise meet.
Myth: “Networking is all about career talk.”
Networking doesn’t always need to be about work. Chatting about personal interests can make connections more memorable and lasting.
Myth: “Every networking contact becomes a professional relationship.”
Not every interaction has to turn into something. Go in without expectations, and enjoy meeting new people. The best connections are often unplanned.

3. Corporate Red Flags to Watch For 🚩

Assistants know a few red flags to look out for in corporate culture:

🚩 Office Coffee Tastes Like Burnt Hopes and Dreams
The “perk” no one dares mention but everyone knows.
🚩 “Urgent” in an Email Subject Line
If it’s labeled urgent but could’ve waited a week, you know it’s a red flag.
🚩 Buzzword Overload
If “synergy,” “pivot,” and “leverage” are thrown around like a corporate Mad Lib, beware.
🚩 “Looking for Rockstars Only”
Code for expecting miracles daily—without the “rockstar” pay. 🎸

Real Talk Wrap-Up

AGBO assistants know that networking is a long game. Their takeaways? Build genuine connections, skip outdated networking “rules,” and keep an eye out for red flags. Play it smart, and you’ll be networking like a pro in no time.

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A huge thank you to Gran Coramino for sponsoring the event and keeping the vibes fresh all night long!