The thought
of networking events can be incredibly daunting. They are often expected to be
awkward, filled with strained conversations and uneasy loitering. I am now
three years into my PhD and have learnt a few fail safe techniques to make
any event not only manageable but also useful for developing contacts - the
purpose of networking!
Networking is
a skill and, like all skills, it needs practice to become proficient. However, as
with most things, there are a few shortcuts you can take to make things easier.
As a fairly shy and quiet person, networking wasn’t something which came
naturally to me, but now I actually look forward to it! It would be wrong to say
I never get nervous about serious networking events (no one wants to look like
a fool) but I am definitely more confident than I was three years ago.
Here are my
top tips to survive and thrive at any networking event…
Tip 1 - Have
some sort of drink with you - tea, coffee, water, whatever you prefer. Having a
drink to hand can give you something to do to make yourself look less nervous
when you are talking to people. If drinks are supplied, always get one, it can
be a great place to spark up a conversation.
Tip 2 - Ahead
of the event try to find out some people who may be attending. This way you
can have good questions prepared and not just be lost for words.
Tip 3 -
Following on from above, at conferences remember that academics love
to talk about their work. Mention something specific you have read and listen
while they chat away. Ask your pre-thought-out questions and you will look
great!
Tip 4 - Value
other students as credible contacts. They will feel the same as you
at these events, will be easier to approach than academics and will be very knowledgeable.
Also, being introduced to an academic at a conference by their student shows
great networking from you and their student. Win win!
Tip 5 -
Remember faces. People are easier to approach the 2nd time round and you are
likely to be attending similar events in the future. Talking about past shared
experiences is a great ice breaker.
Tip 6 - Don’t
underestimate small talk. Nobody wants to talk about work all the time. Talking
about day to day life is still networking and making contacts. People feel like
they know you more and this is great for being memorable.
Now, what
works for me won’t necessarily work for everyone else. Some people are just
born able to handle these sort of events without an ounce of awkwardness (oh to
be one of these people!) While others - like me - need to practice. My main message from the above tips is just to dive in! Fake
confidence if need be. You can be nervous on the inside but with a little bit
of acting nobody will be able to tell. And finally, remember networking events
are never as awkward or isolating as you think they are going to be. Enjoy
them!
Chloe Marshall, PhD researcher (The Medical School)
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