Is this networking or overstepping?

Sarah

November 7,2023 at 2:44PM UTC

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Is this networking or overstepping?

I work frequently with someone and one of their coworkers contacted me to ask my company to sponsor her son's sports team. This coworker I haven't had any recollection of any communication between us. I'm a bit irritated that she used our 3rd party connection. Is this a break in boundaries or just networking? Should I just ignore the email? Or address the issue?

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AnonymousNovember 7,2023 at 2:51PM UTC
Networking
Christine KleinNovember 7,2023 at 3:07PM UTC
This is the way networking works. Reach out and provide an answer to the question. You never know when that person may be able to help you out and by sponsoring her son's sports team, what return that may present to you and your company. Be openminded and don't think that everyone is out to get you. Good Luck!
AnonymousNovember 7,2023 at 3:26PM UTC
It's a request to Sponsor a sports team.
Gretchen SkalkaNovember 7,2023 at 3:46PM UTC
I think Christine Klein is on to something below!
Be open to the conversation. You never know where it could lead.
Be honest with her if you're not the decision maker on sponsorships and donations (usually HR or communications is), help direct her to the right place and you can network with her as she is with you in this instance.
SarahNovember 7,2023 at 4:17PM UTC
I appreciate the feedback! I get sponsorship and other like requests a lot and I guess I got a bit sensitive to be pitched at like that. Thanks!
Heather (she/her)November 8,2023 at 1:28PM UTC
I'd just ignore it, or let her know you're not interested. I do think it's overstepping a little, but not with a negative intention.
Audrey KirschNovember 9,2023 at 9:52PM UTC
Just an over zealous parent. Ignore the request. It's always something - cookies, candy, magazine subscriptions, and sponsorships. You just have to say no or ignore sometimes.
AnonymousNovember 13,2023 at 1:52AM UTC
I don't blame you one bit for feeling annoyed at such a request, coming from someone you don't even know. And I would politely decline, especially if your role doesn't give you the authority to allow your company to be a sponsor.
If this is "networking", as others have stated below, it's hardly a wonder that so many people say they hate networking.
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