"1) Aren't going to hire somebody for a leadership position because they met them networking --- they are going to hire them based on merit" So even if that we

"1) Aren't going to hire somebody for a leadership position because they met them networking --- they are going to hire them based on merit" So even if that were true (which is questionable, at best), they won't hire you if you are not on their radar. One way to get on their radar? Know them / meet them.