Networking. LinkedIn. Coffee chats. If your heart doesn’t drop when you hear those words, I hope to one day learn from you!
While these words may feel daunting, they reflect a broader shift toward actively building connections, reaching out to professionals, and embracing situations that push us beyond our comfort zones.
Next time you hear these words, I want you to remember: discomfort means you are growing!
what is networking?
Networking today often involves sending messages on LinkedIn, writing cold emails, or reaching out to individuals whose work interests you. These connections may be with peers, mentors, or professionals in your field. Regardless of who you contact, it is essential to approach every interaction with gratitude and genuine curiosity. Meaningful relationships can open many doors, but only if cultivated intentionally.
Let’s talk steps!
Connecting with a potential mentor: If you are connecting with someone who has a current job in your field of interest, a past professor, or a student who is simply a few years ahead in school, and you find yourself truly interested in the work they do, send a message/email! With this specifically, approach with curiosity. Say you want to hear more about what they do and their experiences with xyz. Most potential mentors will be extremely open to fitting you into their schedule to chat.
Preparation: Before a coffee chat, lunch meeting, or virtual call, conduct thorough research. Review their LinkedIn profile, professional website, and relevant publications. Prepare 5 to 10 thoughtful questions about their experiences, career path, or industry. Additionally, have a concise 30-second elevator pitch ready to ensure you can clearly articulate who you are and what you hope to pursue.
In the moment: When you are there, it is important to be present and genuine. Let the conversation flow naturally, and if there is an awkward pause, remember those questions and see if you can flip the conversation a bit!
Expectations: While networking should always be genuine, if there are opportunities you know this person may have for you, let it come naturally in the conversation or send a follow up email to see where things go. However, do not come into it with a direct expectation of receiving an internship, fellowship, job, etc.
After the fact: Always, always, always say thank you! Of course, in-person is important, but, you should also take the time to send a follow-up email and thank them for their time and guidance. Gratitude is the classiest thing we can have in the professional world!
Girlbossing!
Confidence plays a critical role in navigating networking spaces, particularly for women in fields such as business, finance, law, medicine, and engineering. Understanding your values, strengths, and aspirations can propel you forward as much as — and often more than — your professional connections.
Women are frequently told they are “too emotional,” yet such stereotypes can serve as motivation to excel. Confidence, ambition, and authenticity remain among the most powerful tools young professionals can bring to any networking environment.
As you prepare for future networking conversations or events, approach each one with clarity, purpose and confidence in who you are.
discomfort
Remember, growth does not happen in the places you are comfortable. Rather, growth and professional development happen in the uncomfortable and sometimes awkward situations. It is important to embrace these situations. Be ambitious, curious and seek out mentors and role models. Genuine connections are absolutely invaluable!
Utilizing all of these skills could be crucial to landing your next job, connection, or internship! Keep all of this in mind, and good luck on your future girl-bossing!