@phoneboy @kdfrawg
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/schmooze
there are two meanings of the word. I have no issue with socialising and getting to know new people at events like conferences (which I guess is sort of networking). The thing I hate is a) only talking to people because you're after something - usually "to be known" so you can get a job, which honestly in this setting is a terrible criterion for offering someone a job down the track (only people with money and only people who've found a way to escape for a few days can get to conferences, not a good filter at all) OR because you're a drug company rep (enough said) b) the fact that you "have" to do this for something like an advanced trainee job that should be given on merit. The college is fortunately trying to stop the "pre interview" nonsense for example, as among other things it's an opportunity for employers to ask illegal questions eg asking women if they plan on getting pregnant