A sample essay from a previous edition of The Afternoon Shift newsletter. Subscribe here to read on.
While planning to meet up with my friend Dréa, she suggested Madhouse Cafe.
I wasn’t familiar with it, but I texted a thumbs-up and didn’t think twice about the venue, other than to map it so I arrived on time.
I knew it would be a great experience because Dréa is someone I trust.
And that trust became a big part of our conversation when we met up last week.
I was sharing updates on The Afternoon Shift, because I not only value her advice, but because she’s been actively involved since the beginning.
She joined one of our first small group sessions last year.
And spoke on a panel at one of our larger events this past winter.
In addition to being a powerhouse marketer and entrepreneur, Dréa is a super-connector.
And a generous one at that.
As we talked about what might be next for The Shift, she brought up the idea of the co-sign.
First, as a shorthand for trust.
Certain people have earned it.
If someone like Dréa recommends a guest speaker, or a cafe, you don’t need to do any vetting.
You say yes.
Then we talked about the opportunity to create that kind of value for Shifters via thoughtful and relevant introductions.
In other words, co-signs.
This felt both timely, and true to the vision and values of this project.
Connecting great people is one of my favorite things to do, and it’s a top priority for this community.
But the conversation with Dréa lit a fire.
And gave me even more conviction that we’re onto something here.
Networking has always been critical.
Testimonials are a playbook staple.
Referrals still drive the highest-value leads.
Athlete endorsements are rising fast.
Influencer budgets keep growing.
AI is forcing us to question if something is human.
It all adds up to this:
Personal recommendations have never mattered more.
That’s right, we’re increasingly operating in a co-sign economy.
Career Co-Sign
The term co-sign originally came from banking and law, literally signing alongside someone, sharing responsibility.
Then it found its way into music and culture: A co-sign from the right tastemaker could launch someone’s career.
In every context it represents tangible trust. A shared bet. A shared belief.
And when it comes to work, especially at mid-career, there’s always a co-sign in the mix.
For example right now, each client project I take on has a co-sign at either the entry point by way of a mutual connection, in the evaluation phase via a critical reference check, or in the work itself through the collaborations and teams I create for the client.
And that brings us back to one of the biggest themes to emerge from this newsletter:
Career should be more of a team sport.
So let’s keep it going.
Let’s build more opportunities to earn and exchange trust.
Through real connection, generous introductions, and smart collaboration.
And right now, who can you co-sign by way of a timely introduction, a collaborative pitch, or just a quick call to say, I trust and admire you, how can I be helpful?