The Network of enlightened Women kicked off its fifth annual Professional Development Week by hosting a virtual panel discussion on Unlocking the Power of Networking. Students and young professionals nationwide tuned into the webinar to learn more about the importance of networking and how to use it as a tool to advance their careers.
The discussion featured Christopher N. Malagisi, Executive Director of Outreach at Hillsdale College, and Sara Bianca, Vice President of State Government Relations at McGuireWoods Consulting. Pulling from their vast career experiences, the two shared with attendees about the importance of networking and key tips and strategies.
They explained that the best way to start a conversation with someone you’re looking to build a connection with is by asking them questions, instead of reverting to talking about yourself for the duration of your interaction. You’re much more likely to have a genuine conversation through being curious, asking questions, and getting to know them. Being authentic is key!
While much of our world has become digitized, it cannot replace the value of in-person connections. Because of this, it’s important to network in-person as much as possible, where you’re able to shake hands, exchange business cards, and talk face-to-face with others. Make small goals for yourself when attending in-person networking events too, such as trying to connect with three to five new people during the course of the event.
For students who don’t live in the Washington, DC area but would like to work there after graduating, Malagisi recommended scheduling a fall and spring trip to DC to attend networking events and schedule in-person meetings with your connections. The sooner you can begin scheduling these trips during your time as an undergraduate, the better.
If an in-person visit is not possible, he recommended scheduling Zoom meetings instead. When asking to meet with someone, whether it be in-person or virtually, it’s imperative to explain that you’re happy to work around their schedule and meet at a time and location most convenient to them. By working around their schedule, this will increase your chances of them accepting your invitation to meet with you.
One of the last points Bianca and Malagisi made was that when meeting new people at a networking event or having coffee with someone you want to build a better professional connection with, make sure you are kind and respectful to the other person. People can tell the difference between someone who wants to use them as a way to climb the corporate ladder and someone is genuinely interested in what they have to say and wants to build a relationship with them. Kindness goes a long way!
This blog was written by Marketing & Communications Coordinator Sophia Lisi.
