Science Networking

Most science jobs come through relationships,

Not through social media or job boards  

Do you want to meet other scientists without having to travel or pay for conferences? 

This page describes several ways to practice and improve your networking skills from where you are. 

• Why is networking is so important for your career?
• How can you practice without having to travel?
• Do you prefer networking in person?
• Where can you learn how to network?
• How can you practice networking online 1:1?

Why is networking so important for your career? 

Strong generous networks enable resources to flow to network members, in seemingly effortless ways.

By mastering networking, scientists can build relationships, share resources and find career opportunities. 

But in-person networking events specifically for scientists (e.g., at science conferences or professional meetings) may require significant time and expense. Employers may not allow time off to go to them anyway.  

And networking -- especially with people whom you want to impress -- can feel awkward.

Those who find it difficult or overwhelming may avoid networking altogether.  

As a result, some scientists "go it alone" in their careers and don't receive the benefits that generous networks can and do provide. 

(I have used all those excuses not to network too!)

You can do better. You can start now to make your own network larger and more beneficial to everyone in it, including yourself. 

How can you practice networking without having to travel?

1. Start conversations anywhere -- with friends, people in line at the grocery store, in airports...  You can gain skills and confidence by practicing networking in informal conversations.

2. Check out professional science organizations; they may offers online networking. Whatever your science field, join one and go to their events. 

For example, the American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG) offers Geologic Networking Online (GNO). 

GNO is free and all geologists and geology students are welcome:

• Geology students in higher education (BS, MS, PHD candidates)
• Early, mid and late career professionals
• Retired geologists 
• AIPG members and non-members alike

To find out when the next GNO event is scheduled, visit the Events page of the AIPG website. Scroll down the list of Events to find the next GNO date. Register and save the date on your calendar.  AIPG will send you the link to attend the event. 

Do you prefer networking in person?

As mentioned above, you can gain skills and confidence by practicing networking in your everyday informal conversations with friends and neighbors and in local groups. 

But to meet scientists, you may wish to join a professional science organization and attend its in-person events and trainings, both locally and nationally if you can.  

Can't find a local professional group? Start one by offering to meet local scientists or even your coworkers after work at a restaurant or park. Just do it. 

Where can you learn how to network?

Here are some books that I recommend: 

• The 20-Minute Networking Meeting, Graduate Edition by Nathan A. Perez & Marcia Ballinger. This one is great for preparing for and conducting short, respectful and productive networking conversations.
• Endless Referrals, third edition, by Bob Burg. Available on Bob's website and through other booksellers. Also available in audiobooks. Very practical tips for preparing for networking, asking questions and following up.
• Give and Take by Adam Grant. This book isn't about networking but it does provide the intellectual foundation for thinking about networks in terms of giving, taking, reciprocity, and generosity rather than self-promotion.
• The Start-up of You by Reid Hoffman & Ben Casnocha. This book describes how to develop your career intentionally, including through relationships and networks.

Professional organizations for your branch of science can support you as well.

If you are an aspiring or young geologist, check out the American Geosciences Institute (AGI)'s Resources for students and early career professionals.

Or, you can join AIPG for free your first year! (Learn more about AIPG membership) Then, you can  

• Attend a workshop for students and early career professionals during AIPG's annual conference. It includes instruction and practice in in-person networking. 
• Access AIPG's Student Resources 
• Get a mentor through AIPG's Mentoring program

How can you practice networking online 1:1?  

By practicing networking one person at a time, you can move toward forming genuine relationships of trust and generosity that will uplift you throughout your career. 

You don't have to suffer by learning networking the hard way or waiting too long to develop a network, as I did.

I want to make it easier for you -- especially if you are a younger scientist-- to build a network that can help you in good times and bad.

I'd be happy to practice networking online with you! 

I was once a nerdy, socially awkward young scientist. I'll accept you as you are, give you supportive feedback, walk along side you and cheer you on. 

During our 1:1 networking call, I'd like to hear about about:

• what kinds of connections would help you right now
• what makes networking worthwhile (or not) for you
• what kind of support scientists like you actually need and want

We would have a real networking conversation, not a sales call. And it's an informal one, so you don't have to feel awkward about it.

Ideally, the call will help you identify how you want to grow your own network of scientists and what might help you get there.

If I can connect you with another scientist who would be a good resource for you, I will -- with their permission, of course.

If an informal networking call with me appeals to you, please contact me on Linked In or use this contact form and I’ll send you a few times when we might meet online.

If you are wondering "What's the catch?", see below. 

“The university doesn’t prepare you for the real world.

“It gives you what you should know for geology, but when it comes to actually working with people, that’s not the emphasis. Many times there isn’t even the time for it. 

“I think that networking practice would have been really helpful.” 
 
                                                                                           -- KC, recent graduate