Imagine this: You attend a networking event at a conference. There are groups of friends and colleagues forming, but you are unfamiliar with the crowd.
Suddenly, a professional in your field comes up to you and asks to chat (they may sense your anxiety, they've been in your shoes!).
🤔 WHAT DO YOU DO? 🤔
A) run the other direction 🏃♂️
B) stumble through awkward, short responses 🥴
C) apply tips from PhD Balance for networking to make a meaningful connection with a new person!
Answer: C!!!! 🥳🎉 - Read below & let us know what your tips are!
1. Introduce yourself!
Keep to basics right off the bat: Your name, University and what academic degree you're working on.
2. Practice an elevator pitch of your research!
Prepare a less than 15-second high-level title of research, and a 1-2 minute explanation.
3. Ask them questions
(e.g.) Can you tell me a bit about your career path and what led you to the role you're in today? What were some of your early roles in the field? What does a workday look like for you?
4. Ask for their contact information or business card!
This is also a natural way to wrap up the conversation. LinkedIn or emailing are great ways to follow up and keep a new connection post-conference.
Sign up to our Stronger Together section here to take part in this week's module on Networking and the rest of this month's modules on Professional Development!