It’s about who you know, not what you know. Uh Oh.

When I attended my first networking event, I felt like I was sticking out like a sore thumb, but the thumb gets sorer and sorer and eventually the whole hand goes numb. I had no idea what I was doing, and how everyone else’s conversations seemed to flow and lead into a myriad of new topics so effortlessly. It was something I wanted to ‘master’ but I then realised that every connection made was not a result of mastering a skill, it was just a simple conversation.

Before attending university, I never understood why or how valuable connections and simple conversations can be. Perfecting my knowledge and skills was always my priority, so when I knew connections are just as important, the concept of networking was alien to me. However, it is something you and I do every day. Whether its catching up with a friend or making small talk whilst waiting in line, every interaction will always simplify down to a conversation. Despite the specialist language and commonly used abbreviations, this still applies to networking. Simply asking questions about their experiences- past and present, learning as much as you can about them, will help. Relating to their experiences, finding similarities between your research and theirs, any aspect you can ‘connect’- draw that parallel.

I am entering my third year of studies, and connections, more so simple conversations with professors and postgraduates, have helped me access opportunities I would have otherwise never heard of.

There is also the ‘impostor syndrome’ you feel when standing in a room full of individuals who know so much and may have achieved so much more. Thoughts of ‘not being good enough’, not knowing what something means, worries of asking a ‘stupid question’. Conversation blurs into one, the slight mention of a topic you’re unfamiliar with triggers the chain reaction of panic, all because of one fleeting moment of doubt.

Remind yourself that you have worked hard to get to exactly where you are right now, today and every day before that. That hard work is a direct testament to what you will achieve in the future.

I feel that ‘impostor syndrome’ at this very moment. Anybody reading this is most likely 10 times more qualified and experienced than I am, an expert in their field, whereas I am ‘just an undergrad’. However, putting yourself out there can make a big difference. Taking a step outside your comfort zone can be the one step that leads to success. Whether it’s something as simple as striking up a conversation with a colleague or peer, sending a cold email to an employer, or presenting to a room full of people, even the smallest change can have a significant impact. To be completely honest, writing this article is completely new to me- who knows where it’ll get me?

Uncertainty of the future is a pressing issue, whatever stage of academia or industry you are at, but speaking to others, asking questions, and making connections, can not only help you right there and then, but also in the future too. In ways you and I could not yet imagine, or hypothesise, bearing in mind the scientists we are.

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