How Do I Network?

Networking is the essential, ongoing process of building the authentic relationships that will form the foundation of your career. Your network is a community of people who will support, guide, and champion you throughout your professional journey.

Developing a networking mindset is one of the most powerful and strategic things you can do for your future. This chapter will show you how to cultivate that mindset and build meaningful connections.

Networks consist of personal and professional contacts you can learn from about potential job opportunities, industry knowledge, desired skills or education from. You can build your professional network through:

• Social media: LinkedIn is a common tool people use to stay updated on employers and initiate connections with professionals working in your area of interest.
• Events: Attend networking events lead by the Science Careers & Experience Centre, communities of practice or professional associations.
• Extracurricular activities: Upper years in clubs or people you meet while volunteering in the space can be a great source of information and community.
• Informational interviews: Request an information interview with professionals working in the field or employer of interest to learn more about opportunities and desired qualifications.

Watch: Why Network? And What Is Networking?

Watch: The Secret To Great Opportunities? The Person You Haven’t Met Yet | Tanya Menon (TED Talk)

This video covers the following concepts:

• Social Narrowing
• Strength of our Weak Ties vs. our Strong Ties
• How networking is Relational and Reciprocal

Build Your Confidence To Network

For many people, the idea of “networking” can feel intimidating and forced. If the thought of reaching out to strangers makes you feel anxious, know that your feelings are completely valid and incredibly common.

The good news is that effective networking isn’t about being the most outgoing person in the room or having perfectly smooth conversations. At its core, it’s simply about being curious and building genuine connections, and it’s a skill that anyone—introverts and extroverts alike—can develop with practice.

Read: Daunted by Networking? Try the Scientific Method

Five Tips To Start Networking

Watch: Growing Your Professional Network – Initiating And Maintaining Connections

This video covers the following concepts:

• Who to network with
• Passive vs. active engagement

Quick Chapter Recap

• Building professional relationships is essential for learning about new and interesting career paths, securing jobs and advancing in your career
• Networking is for everyone!  You don’t have to be an extrovert to build professional relationships.
• Set small achievable goals to start reaching out to professionals in fields of interest