Part of the job
For many postdocs, networking may not come naturally or feel intuitive, especially when their focus is primarily on research, writing, and academic development. It is sometimes perceived as involving small talk, which might seem superficial and can be uncomfortable.
However, networking shouldn’t be perceived as a task for the extroverted but rather be approached in a way that fits with your personality and your professional goals. Networking is a valuable part of being a postdoc: it helps you stay informed about developments in your field, discover opportunities, and build connections/collaborations that can support your career. It can make the academic life less isolating and potentially more enjoyable as it opens a life outside of your research.
Rethinking networking
At its core, networking is about connecting with people and exchanging valuable information based on curiosity and interest. It also allows you to ask for advice and help, such as sharing data, co-authoring a paper, or recommending each other for grants and jobs.
Approaching networking with this mindset makes conversations more authentic and enjoyable. When attending events where you don’t know anyone, starting a conversation may feel difficult, but it is better to start small. Approach someone standing alone or join a group with an open circle. Sometimes just commenting on the food/drinks or the music that is playing on the background, or even the keynote lecture you have just attended are enough to start a conversation. You could also think in advance about questions that could work as a conversation starter. These questions can be open-ended, such as:
“What projects are you most excited about at the moment?”
“What do you enjoy most in your current role/research?”
Keep in mind that when you show genuine interest, and listen attentively to your fellow speaker, it is more likely that the conversation will flow naturally. Don’t forget to prepare your own answers – it is common for someone to turn the same question back to you.
Keep it social
Everyone has their own style of connecting with people, so make sure you are being yourself. Be mindful that networking is more effective and enjoyable when you place the social aspect at the forefront. This means, for example, that you focus your attention on the conversation and carefully listen to what people have to say. In other words, don’t talk about yourself too much and give room to the other person. When you are pushing your own agenda, your fellow speaker will probably sense that your intentions are instrumental. Furthermore, remember that networking and collaborations work best as a two-way street, so that both parties can benefit from it.
After an event or meeting, make sure to send a brief follow-up message – either directly or by connecting on LinkedIn. You can tell your connection that you enjoyed meeting them, reflect on something that was said, or maybe share a link on the topic discussed with further information. This is how you can continue the conversation and deepen your connection.
Conferences: A networking opportunity
Conferences are designed for scientific exchange and that makes them excellent for networking. However, it is not always easy to casually start up a conversation, especially when it comes to connecting with renowned presenters, who you admire. Therefore, a little research beforehand will help you make valuable connections.
As soon as the conference program is online, make a list of the presenters, or other people visiting that you would like to talk to. You could contact them beforehand, with a concise conversation starter, and try to set up a short meeting during the conference, by suggesting a specific time and place. If the conference you attend includes poster sessions, then this is a great opportunity for informal networking, as you can discuss one-to-one with the presenter in a more relaxed environment.
Informal chats and Digital connections
Another efficient way to expand your network is through an informal interview or over a coffee chat/ video chat. Asking someone you don’t know for a chat, might be intimidating at first, but when there is a professional link, based on shared expertise, many professionals may be open to share their experiences. Be transparent about why you want to have a chat and, once you are in it, don’t ambush someone with a hidden agenda.
A good platform to connect with colleagues is LinkedIn, as it contains relevant information about someone’s professional career, offers the possibility to connect, and has a direct-message feature. Make sure that if you connect with someone you don’t know, you include a personal message. Since not everyone uses the platform actively, sending a direct email can be a more efficient way to communicate.
Quality over quantity
Networking is not about collecting as many contacts as possible, but more about making meaningful conversations and connections with people you find interesting. Like many aspects of the postdoc journey, it can take time and effort, especially at the beginning. So, keep your mind open, because you never know what opportunities, insights and collaborations the next conversation might bring.
If you still have questions about networking, feel free to contact us about this topic at publicrelations@postdocnl.com
