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Hey friends,
Three months ago, after a training session, a student asked me for a few tips on collaborating with experts abroad
He did not know where to start
We all heard the saying “your network is your net worth.”
Before doing research, I worked for a decade in various sales organizations
In business, many deals are only made possible thanks to the relationships you build and manage.
People do business with people
It also works the same way in scientific research
Many think you have to walk into conference rooms, forcing as many discussions as possible.
This could work but it would be quite exhausting. And it wouldn’t feel natural
Here are a few strategies for early-career researchers that work well for me without being pushy
Networking is mainly about intention. Win-win situations
Not the number of people you reach out to, like a professional spammer
First, preparation.
Before conferences:
· Check the program
· Check who is presenting on topics close to yours.
· Check their recent papers and prepare a few questions you could ask
You could even send a quick email before the conference starts as a note to start the conversation
This also works online via social media.
It’s easier to have conversations with people who have the same interests.
Do your research and prepare yourself.
You could also comment on someone’s post and start conversations online
I shared a few tips to identify experts in your field. You can check it here: https://jamaleo.beehiiv.com/p/identify-experts-in-a-specific-field-topic
In conferences, poster sessions, and coffee breaks are also good opportunities for relaxed conversations.
Then always follow up
Similar to sales, follow up. Always.
You don’t need to ask anything big, no need to ask to co-write a paper etc.
If you happen to work together, this would come naturally
Just a thank you note with a short summary. This matters a lot and helps keep the relationship alive
To conclude, try to have just a few deep conversations instead of bumping into as many researchers as possible with no real value
As always, good things take time. Try building relationships that last
Well, that’s all for this week.
I’d love to hear from you: how do you approach networking online and at conferences?
See you next Sunday
Jamal