Rahul Pandey, a former staff engineer at Meta, believes that while luck plays a role in success, individuals can actively create their own opportunities.
On an episode of “The Developing Dev” podcast, Pandey shared how building genuine relationships and taking calculated risks shaped his impressive career path.
The Role of Curiosity in Building Networks
Pandey emphasised that curiosity is a powerful tool for manufacturing luck.
He explained that being genuinely interested in people and their journeys opens the door to unexpected opportunities.
Rather than treating networking as a transactional activity, Pandey suggested approaching it with real curiosity.
By reaching out to others with authentic interest and something meaningful to share, you create relationships that feel natural and engaging.
Pandey said that most of his career moves came from knowing what people he admired were working on and staying connected with them.
This proactive curiosity made a huge difference in attracting opportunities his way.
Why Genuine Connections Matter
One key point Pandey raised was the importance of maintaining balance in conversations.
If a discussion feels one-sided or stilted, it could be because it lacks mutual value.
Rather than only asking questions or seeking mentorship, Pandey advised offering something of your own — an idea, a project, or an insight.
Sharing valuable work or perspectives builds stronger, two-way relationships.
According to Pandey, this approach creates “gravity,” causing people to naturally gravitate toward you because they see you as someone worth engaging with.
Taking Calculated Risks Early in His Career
Pandey’s decision to join a startup straight after college reflects his willingness to take bold yet calculated risks.
Although he had offers from major companies like Google, Microsoft, and Meta, he chose the less conventional path.
Joining a startup run by one of his former Stanford professors seemed risky, but it offered unique growth opportunities.
Pandey felt that even if the venture failed, it would still be a compelling story and a valuable learning experience.
He saw this choice as a “high-risk, high-reward” move that could set him apart from thousands of engineers entering Big Tech.
Applying the One-Way and Two-Way Door Framework
Pandey used the “one-way versus two-way door” framework to make his career decisions.
A two-way door represents a choice that can be reversed if things do not work out, whereas a one-way door represents a permanent commitment.
Pandey viewed joining a startup as a two-way door — if it did not succeed, he could later move to a Big Tech company.
This mindset helped him make bold choices without fear of irreversible consequences.
The Power of Storytelling in Career Growth
Another major insight from Pandey was the importance of crafting a strong personal narrative.
Taking the unconventional route allowed him to tell a powerful story about betting on a startup and gaining unique experiences.
He highlighted how having an interesting narrative can open doors and build credibility.
Employers and peers are often drawn to people with compelling stories that demonstrate initiative, courage, and creativity.
Choosing Opportunities That Broaden Perspectives
When advising others, Pandey suggested prioritising options that expose you to new people, responsibilities, and environments.
If faced with two career paths, the one offering unique experiences usually leads to greater long-term growth.
By stepping into roles that challenge you and expand your horizons, you develop not only skills but also rich stories that boost your professional brand.
Conclusion
Rahul Pandey’s journey shows that while luck is a factor in career success, much of it can be manufactured through curiosity, genuine networking, and strategic risk-taking.
By building real connections, sharing your own value, and choosing bold paths, you can create opportunities that set you apart and propel you forward.
His story is a reminder that the most rewarding paths are often the ones that involve a little uncertainty — and a lot of growth.