How to establish and make the most of your network

Whether you look for a new job or want to build new partnerships – your network can be a crucial asset to help you achieve your goal. Being able to network is therefore a key skill to have. But like any skill, it takes time to master. At first, it may seem tricky and intimating. And after 2 years of reduced social interactions due to the Covid-19 pandemic, even the best networkers may have gotten a bit rusty. Therefore, the SVIN, together with the NCCRs DFAB and Automation, organised a webinar to give researchers an introduction (or refreshing) into this modern day art. 

A deep dive into theory

During the first session of the webinar, Patricia Widmer, Programme Director at the University of St. Gallen, focused on The Why and How of Networking. She introduced the concept and theory of networking and explained several approaches to online networking that build real relationships. The main take-aways were that networking is a skill that has to be learned like any other and that several types of networkers exist, such as the passive or shy networker.

The second session was dedicated to making networking personal through developing a customised strategy. Jennifer Walter, a rebranding strategist, shared her tips regarding personal branding and shaping an online presence, stating that "if you leave an impression anyway, make it a certainty that you leave one in alignment with who you are... not by accident or luck, but rather on purpose, by intention, by design". Désirée Klarer, a journalist and recruiter, highlighted the additional challenge brought by cross-cultural contexts.

Networking in action

After the theory, participants had the opportunity to meet 18 Swiss networking associations on the highly interactive platform Wonder during two additional sessions. A particular focus were associations targeting equality in STEM subjects and on women networks. 

According to the participants, one of the keys to the success of the webinar was the speed networking, which took place at the beginning of each session. Participants were randomly grouped into pairs of two and had four minutes to answer a given question. This turned out to be a great way to break the ice!

Even the best webinar can’t beat an apero

Two apero events in Zurich and Bern will conclude this webinar and give participants the opportunity to meet each other physically and actively practise their new skills. For anyone that missed this workshop but would still like its valuable insights, the presentations of the invited speakers are available on our YouTube channel. We look forward to seeing you in the dedicated LinkedIn group to meet new people, get new networking opportunities and access the material of the webinar!