Networking Strategies for Graduate Students
Author: Katy Celina Sandoval
Networking can sometimes feel intimidating, but it’s an invaluable skill for graduate students. Here are some practical tips to help you not only connect but build meaningful professional relationships.
While general advice like attending conferences, joining associations, and using social media platforms is great, I want to focus on how to create and nurture those connections.
1. Prepare a brief “elevator pitch” about you and your research
Something I have learned that can be helpful is to have a ‘go-to’ elevator pitch, and to know how to adjust it depending on the type of event/activity I am participating in.
If it’s a formal academic social event my elevator pitch will be more research relevant: “Hi my name is ___, I’m a X year PhD candidate at McMaster University in Dr. __’s lab. I study ____...”. This often sparks follow-up questions, especially if someone work in a related area.
If it’s an informal academic social event my elevator pitch includes extracurricular activities and other interests that I am involved in and passionate about. I’ve found that this can open the door to discussing other topics related to academia and to forming a deeper connection.
When the conversation flows well, you can ask “would you mind connecting through [social platform you prefer]?” I normally suggest LinkedIn, X (formerly twitter), e-mail, Instagram or even WhatsApp. Personalize your choice based on the rapport you’ve established.
2. Plan ahead what you’d like to get out of an event you attend
Conferences and events can be overwhelming, so having a plan really helps! Before or even on your way to the event, think about what you’d like to get out of the event (i.e., consider setting some objectives).
Are you looking to meet future mentors? Are you looking to connect with someone who is doing similar work? Are you looking for future positions? Are you looking to practice your elevator pitch and describing your research? Are you seeking specific advice?
Whatever your reason for attending the event, be sure to make a plan. Who specifically would you like to connect with? How long do you plan to attend? The plan should be flexible, but it helps to reduce social anxiety and keeps you focused.
3. Bring a networking buddy for support
Networking alone and alongside a friend are two important skills to have. Networking alongside a lab mate can reduce the pressure of networking. However, this person must share some of your values and mutual respect so you both have space to engage. They can also help you navigate conversations, especially if you’re more introverted.
That being said, you should know how to network by yourself. You won’t always have other people with you and sometimes it gives you a little push to connect with more people. I would avoid networking in groups however, as this can prevent you from meeting others and they could be intimidated by the size of the group or think you are “cliquey”. Try to keep it to 1 or 2 people as much as possible.
4. Hype your lab and lab mates
I went to an international conference with my lab mate about a year ago where we both presented a poster. It just so happened that our poster sessions were at the same time. What ended up happening is that we both referred to each other’s posters to the audiences, especially when they had questions that the other had the answer for. This attitude made a lot of people laugh and caught their attention because we were so supportive of each other and excited for their work as much as our own. Fast forward to a year later, we went back to that international conference, and many people remembered us by that. They liked it so much and found it to be a beautiful quality that said a lot about our relationship and personalities. The way you act at events says a lot about who you are as a person. Being a genuinely supportive team player lets others know that you are confident and open to collaborating and supporting others.
5. Get involved in organizing events or being a panelist
Being an organizer of social events or panelist expands your network and increases your visibility within the field. You will get to meet other organizers who share similar interests. Attendees will also feel like they know you a little more and will want to come chat with you.
I’ve organized a few social events at conferences related to topics that matter to me (e.g. Latinx in neuroscience and women in neuroscience). I met people who shared similar experiences and passions, but it also allowed us to connect on multiple levels. Many have also reached out afterwards and thanked me for putting in place an occasion to meet others and how excited they felt.
As a panelist, it allows me to open up to attendees and share my experiences. It can also help others feel seen and connect with someone else. I always make sure to stay a little longer to ensure that people have an opportunity to come ask me questions they didn’t feel too comfortable asking in front of others or to ask if they can reach out to me via email.
6. Approach networking with the right mindset: Have fun!
This tip may not surprise most of you, but it is worth mentioning.
When you attend these events, you must go with the right attitude (which is why planning is important for expectations). Have fun meeting people! Remember it is not only about making professional gains, but about building genuine connections. Don’t take yourself too seriously but remain professional. I used to go to network events thinking I had to stick to work talk, be serious and stay with the people I knew. However, this was not the right approach for me. I found that I started to better connect with people when I was able to relax and enjoy myself. Making people smile and laugh leaves a lasting impression.
At a conference social event, I ended up connecting with two graduate students after I did something goofy and instead of feeling embarrassed, I just laughed about it. We ended up chatting the rest of the event and we were having so much fun that others joined us. We stay in touch and occasionally check in on each other’s progress.
7. Be mindful with alcohol
If the event includes alcoholic beverages, limit your intake. Networking while tipsy or drunk leaves a poor impression. Stay in control to make the most of your interactions.
8. Follow up and maintain your connections
You’ve added the person on your social media, now what? Something I like to do at the end of a conference is to send a message to the people I connected with and wish them safe travels or sending them a message after the conference letting them know it was a pleasure to meet and I hope they made it back home safely. If we agreed to connect for a specific reason, I also mention I’d love to schedule a time to meet and discuss XYZ.
Do NOT bombard the person with messages. Be respectful and reach out once in a while to share updates and check in.
Networking can be a fun and rewarding experience if approached with authenticity and preparation. Not every networking event will be the right fit for you, and that’s okay. The key is to focus on building meaningful connections that feel natural and reciprocal (i.e., active listening is equally important as speaking). Be intentional about creating opportunities for others. Thoughtful introductions or referrals can strengthen your network and reflect positively on you as a supportive and proactive member of your community.