I just hired someone for an internship position -- wholly based on personal networking.

That is, I knew her from active participation in a baseball fan forum (http://www.azsnakepit.com). She was cheerful, courteous, kind, etc. That is, she unconsciously demonstrated everything any sane businessperson would be looking for.

After Liz had a baby, she asked me for advice about how to find a part-time work-at-home job where she could learn a new skill (and avoid going stir-crazy from talking only to the baby). And I said, "Hey, _I_ need someone!" I'm now paying her a lot more money than she imagined, she's doing a great job, and the work is getting _done_.

Therefore, I recommend that you begin rooting for the Arizona Diamondbacks. Only good things can come of this.