In this episode of Business Isn’t Hard, Oliver sits down with Professor Eric Knott, a longtime human resources executive, business owner, and professor at Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business, to break down what early career development really looks like for students and young professionals. With more than 25 years of experience across senior HR leadership, consulting, and higher education, Eric shares why most people do not find their career through perfect planning, but through action, reflection, and learning what they like and dislike over time. The conversation challenges the pressure many graduates feel to get their first job exactly right and reframes early roles as opportunities to build skills, clarity, and momentum.

A major focus of the episode is networking and relationship building, especially for students and early professionals who often underestimate how much leverage they have. Eric explains why networking is not about being impressive, but about showing up, starting conversations, and building trust over time. He outlines how relationships create opportunities faster than applications, why confidence matters more than perfection, and how helping others in your network increases your own long-term value. For anyone intimidated by networking or struggling with imposter syndrome, this discussion offers practical, realistic guidance.

The episode also dives into business awareness and why understanding the broader business environment is critical for long-term success. Eric shares why leaders and HR professionals must understand finance, marketing, and economic trends rather than operating in silos. From labor markets to organizational strategy, he explains how staying informed makes professionals more credible, more effective, and better prepared to lead in complex organizations.

Finally, the conversation addresses leadership and ego, one of the most common career derailers Eric sees in his work as a consultant. He explains the difference between healthy confidence and toxic ego, why leaders must balance authority with humility, and how empathy and self-awareness are essential to building trust and strong cultures. This episode is a practical, experience-driven guide for anyone looking to grow their career intentionally, build meaningful relationships, and develop into a leader who creates real impact.