What Abbott Elementary Can Teach Us About Networking Styles
When most people think about networking, they picture awkward events, stiff introductions, or forced conversations. But networking isn’t one-size-fits-all.
And if you’ve ever watched Abbott Elementary, you’ve already seen this play out. Some people walk into a room and light it up; others prefer to connect quietly and intentionally — in the teachers’ lounge, the hallways, and those awkward after-hours PDs. Each character represents a different networking style and their unique approaches can teach you a lot about how to connect more meaningfully at any stage of your career, building relationships, advocating for yourself, and creating community.
Let’s break it down.
Janine Teagues: The Enthusiastic Connector
Janine never misses a chance to show up and that’s her superpower. She’s optimistic, curious, and genuinely wants to help. In networking terms, she’s the “Let’s grab coffee!” type.
Strengths: Builds relationships easily, follows up, and brings positive energy.
Watch out for: Overextending yourself or missing boundaries, not every opportunity needs a “yes.”
Pro tip: Channel Janine’s energy strategically by focusing on connections that align with your current career goals.
Ava Coleman: The Bold Networker
Ava knows how to make an impression, sometimes too well. She’s confident, outspoken, and never misses a chance to plug herself. While her delivery could use finesse, her confidence is something to learn from.
Strengths: Self-assured, memorable, and not afraid to take up space.
Watch out for: Dominating conversations instead of building mutual relationships.
Pro tip: Use Ava’s boldness to your advantage but pair it with genuine curiosity about others. Confidence + empathy = connection.
Gregory Eddie: The Intentional Networker
Gregory doesn’t network for the sake of networking — he builds trust slowly. He observes, listens, and only engages when it feels authentic. This is the introvert’s lane, and it’s powerful.
Strengths: Deep listener, thoughtful follow-up, builds lasting trust.
Watch out for: Missing out on opportunities by waiting too long to engage.
Pro tip: Prep a few go-to questions or topics to make small talk feel more natural. Intentional doesn’t have to mean distant.
Barbara Howard: The Legacy Builder
Barbara is all about integrity, wisdom, and mentorship. She networks across generations, not just for advancement, but for impact. For Barbara, relationships are about stewardship and community care.
Strengths: Mentorship mindset, respected presence, steady influence.
Watch out for: Staying only within your comfort circle.
Pro tip: Your experience is valuable — share it, but stay open to learning from newer voices too.
Melissa Schemmenti: The Resourceful Connector
Melissa knows everyone and can get anything done. She’s the plug — the person who always “has a guy.” She reminds us that networking isn’t just about events; it’s about maintaining and activating relationships over time.
Strengths: Resourceful, loyal, and relationship-driven.
Watch out for: Forgetting to let others help you, too.
Pro tip: Keep track of your contacts and nurture those relationships even when you don’t “need” anything. Reciprocity matters.
Networking doesn’t have to feel forced and it doesn’t have to look the same for everyone.
Whether you’re more like Janine or Gregory, Ava, Melissa or Barbara, what matters most is showing up authentically and consistently. The best networks are built on curiosity, follow-through, and genuine care.
So the next time you find yourself overthinking a coffee chat or doubting your “networking skills,” remember: You don’t have to change your personality to make powerful connections — you just have to know your style and lean into it.
So, which Abbott Elementary networker are you?
