Spent an afternoon at a public library and picked up 3 solid leads from strangers at the photocopier

I was in Austin two weeks ago during a real dry spell, and my home internet went out. So I grabbed my laptop and headed to the downtown library just to have a place to sit. While waiting for the copier, I got to talking with a lady printing invoices for her dog walking business, and she mentioned she needed help with a website. Then a guy behind me overheard and said his buddy runs a local shop that's always looking for writers. By the time I left, I had three phone numbers and one actual job lined up. Has anyone else had random luck like this just by being out in the world during a slow month?

2 comments

2 Comments

the_lucas3h ago

Honestly I love this. Libraries are basically free coworking spaces with better vibes and way more interesting people than any WeWork I've been in. Tbh the photocopier area is a goldmine for random conversations because nobody's in a rush when they're waiting for their turn. Ngl the internet being down was probably a blessing in disguise for you. I've had similar luck just grabbing coffee at a local shop during slow hours and overhearing someone talk about needing freelance help. It's wild how much opportunity is hiding in plain sight when you're not staring at a screen.

rivera.hannah2h ago

Wait the photocopier area?? That's like the most random spot for networking fr. I honestly thought that was just where old receipts go to die, not career opportunities lol.