Authors in the Field

About Authors In the Field

The Authors In the Field Series is a monthly gathering that shines a spotlight on emerging voices in the coaching arena. At Hudson, we are committed to nurturing our curiosity and fostering dialogues with authors who enrich the coaching profession, providing invaluable resources for our community.

In this session, Pam McLean sat down with Michael Melcher, author of Your Invisible Network, for a practical conversation about relationship-building in today’s more virtual, fast-shifting world. Michael unpacked the “invisible” nature of networks—relationships that may be just outside our immediate awareness—and offered a simple way to think about growing them: expand outward to reconnect with weak ties (people a few steps away, or people you once knew well) while also deepening relationships beyond a quick LinkedIn connection.

A key takeaway: weak ties can be surprisingly powerful, often bringing fresh information, new perspectives, and more openness to who we’re becoming—especially during transitions. Michael also addressed the common “ugh, networking” reaction with a reframe coaches will appreciate: discomfort isn’t a stop sign; it’s often part of growth. His guiding principle—“be helpful first”—shifts attention away from self-consciousness and toward curiosity, contribution, and real connection. The group also discussed networking as a habit (not a one-off push), the strengths introverts bring through preparation, and the value of pruning relationships to make space for what’s next.