In a recent LinkedIn post, Shulin Lee argues for a fundamental shift in how professionals approach networking, moving away from the pursuit of vast contact lists towards cultivating deeper, more meaningful relationships. Lee, a proponent of authentic connection, shared insights that challenge the conventional wisdom of accumulating hundreds or even thousands of “open to connect” contacts.
The core of Shulin Lee’s message centers on the idea that a small group of trusted, supportive individuals is far more valuable than a large network of superficial connections. Lee illustrates this point with a stark comparison:
“1000 weak links < 5 people who genuinely have your back.”
This sentiment is echoed throughout Lee’s post, emphasizing that true professional support doesn’t come from sheer numbers but from the quality of the bonds forged.
The Power of Aligned Teams
Shulin Lee elaborates on the strength found in small, cohesive teams, suggesting they often outperform larger, more diffuse groups. According to Lee, this success stems from an environment characterized by:
- Reduced internal politics and increased trust.
- A focus on shared accomplishments over individual ego battles.
- Efficient decision-making, avoiding unproductive “meetings about meetings.”
This perspective suggests that organizational dynamics and team effectiveness are significantly influenced by the depth of trust and alignment among members, rather than just their collective size.
Real-World Impact of Genuine Connections
Lee shares personal anecdotes to underscore the impact of these genuine relationships, stating that the most significant career advancements have come from a few individuals who deeply understood their work, not from a large number who merely knew their name. This highlights a critical distinction: the difference between being known and being truly understood and supported.
“The best career moves I’ve made? They came from 3 people who truly knew my work. Not 300 who knew my name.”
The post further posits that in times of adversity, often referred to as when “s**t hits the fan,” a large crowd is less valuable than a core group of reliable individuals. These are the people who offer support at all hours, provide honest feedback, and genuinely celebrate successes.
A Strategic Approach to Relationship Building
Shulin Lee frames the emphasis on quality over quantity not just as a platitude but as a deliberate career strategy. The call to action is clear: stop collecting contacts and start building real relationships. As Lee puts it:
“Your network isn’t measured in numbers. It’s measured in trust.”
This perspective encourages professionals to invest their time and energy in nurturing connections that are built on mutual respect, reliability, and genuine support. The ultimate measure of one’s network, according to Shulin Lee, is not its size but the depth of trust and the willingness of those connections to offer support when it’s needed most.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Shulin Lee on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on November 23, 2025 | View original post on LinkedIn →