My First Networking Event
So there are different types of networking. The first type we talked about before - making an impression on those you work with or have immediate access to (see
Networking and Schmoozing…). The second type is the kind we encounter at networking events - the type that most of us newly grads (including me) are terrified of…
Well today I made some strides in overcoming this weakness of mine when I accompanied a buddy (one you could consider a “social networking butterfly”) to a networking seminar on Biotech in China hosted by Invitrogen and San Diego State University.
So what did I learn about networking from this experience?
If you are not too comfortable with this type of stuff, carefully scout your first networking targets. Pick people who look like they aren't very comfortable doing this - they are not hard to find. After you start talking to them, you'll soon realize that they're in the same shoes you are and you'll find similar ground. Use these people as your warm up and as your confidence grows move on to bigger fish.
Go to networking seminars focused on the industry you would like to start your career in rather than a general career networking event (i.e. career fairs, career expos….). You will meet people who actually work in that industry (they can be your job references) rather than people who are competing with you to work in it.
Another point on the previous idea - assuming you come from a good school and have a relevant major, you can actually stand out at an event like this. You can pull the “I am a student card” and ask them for career advice and suggestions. Most of these people love to talk to students because it reminds them of their glory days. Be energetic and interested.
Again - this point is played out - ask lots of questions. Be interested in what they do. But somewhere in this conversation, make sure to express your interests to them as well. A good way to indirectly express your interests is by tailoring your questions to serve a purpose. For instance, I spoke to a scientist who came from China and described the type of work he did and the start-up he worked for. I responded by asking what established pharmaceutical they collaborated with and what stage in clinical trials they are at. He responded by referring me to his business minded colleagues.
Make a business card for yourself - even if you are just a student.
Find a friend who is good at this and does this often. Make dates with him/her to go to these events. It's easier to motivate yourself when you have someone pushing you along and encouraging you.
Overall, I learned a lot about myself at this event. Even though I still have much work to do before I become a “social networking butterfly”, this was a big step in the right direction for my personal growth.
Hey, even if you didn't achieve any productive networking, you would have still had free food and booze.