Networking for Success

Networking can be described as the process of building and maintaining a network of contacts and relationships.

From our experience in UCD Research Careers, Early Career Researchers often get their next job from their current network Developing relationships in your current role can have a direct impact on how you transition into your next role

Knowing how to network professionally will make it easier to form valuable connections and increase your chances of receiving new opportunities throughout your career

Here are our top tips for successful networking:

1. Come prepared

Prepare a brief introduction about yourself, also known as your ‘elevator pitch’ This should be a couple of sentences explaining who you are, what you do and what makes you unique It should be interesting, memorable and succinct Practice it out loud, this will ensure your delivery is smooth Remember to keep it short, no longer than 30 seconds

2.

Be strategic

When attending a networking event, understand what you are there to do and focus on making a few solid connections. Start by targeting 2-3 people. Remember, people can sense when you are simply speaking with them to get their business card and go These short interactions may not be memorable and therefore work against you

3 Present yourself with confidence

Initiate conversations with others, offer a firm handshake if appropriate, stand up straight and maintain eye contact throughout the conversation These forms of non-verbal communication demonstrate confidence and can make it easier to maintain a conversation If you’re wearing a nametag, point to it. Try to relax and smile, it helps to build rapport. Remember first impressions can be lasting impressions.

4 Ask questions and listen

A conversation is a two-way process and involves both asking questions and listening Ask open-ended questions and listen to the answers with interest, then build on them with your response Remember that networking is about building relationships, not just making contacts

5. Stay Connected

Stay in touch with your network and always follow up (the next day) and say thank you. The networking process does not end when the event or meeting is over. Make sure to give and receive contact information Following up with your network continues the relationships and preserves those connections For example, if you are on LinkedIn, personalise the note field in the invitation to remind the connection of where you met

MyCareer

MyCareer is our careers management platform and a one stop shop for enhancing your employability skills

MyCareer is packed with interactive tools, e-learning content and the latest job opportunities You can track employers and set your preferences, you will be emailed directly as soon as matching new jobs are posted It is designed to help you navigate today's job market and move your career forward with confidence

This online career management platform has a dedicated Early Career Researcher landing page, specifically created for Postdoctoral Researchers and PhD Graduate Researchers where you will find information on events, career guidance and 1-2-1 career appointments.

You can access MyCareer via UCD Connect or the UCD Careers Network website