STEM networking made simple: Tips for early career success

Let’s face it: networking can feel intimidating, especially when you’re just starting out. Everyone says it’s important, but few explain how to actually do it. Here’s the good news: networking doesn’t have to be scary. At its core, it’s about building connections that open doors to exciting opportunities you might not even know exist, like research projects/collaborations, new internship or fellowship opportunities, career advancement, or mentorships. In STEM, the relationships you build aren’t just about making friends (though that’s a great bonus); they’re about creating a support system that can help you thrive professionally. The key is to approach networking with intention, and we’re here to help you get started.

Start with LinkedIn

A powerful tool for STEM students and graduates who want to network effectively is LinkedIn, so let’s start there. Begin by polishing your profile: make sure your summary, education, experience, skills, certifications, etc., are updated, and it includes a clear, professional photo. Think of your LinkedIn profile as your digital resume/CV and first impression rolled into one. 

Once it’s ready, begin connecting with people you already know, like classmates, professors, mentors, and colleagues. Unlike other social media platforms, LinkedIn is designed for professional networking, so don’t worry about sending requests to acquaintances or people you’ve interacted with briefly. Most will welcome the connection. Managers, coworkers, mentors, and professors you have engaged with personally and even peers from classes, internships/fellowships or research projects are great starting points. Current or recent ORISE participants should also be sure to join and connect with others through ORISE Connections, the exclusive STEM community for current and alumni ORISE participants, mentors, and federal agency partners. Building your network early can help you discover opportunities, gain insights and establish relationships that will support your STEM career for years to come.

Meet-and-greets

If you’re just starting out, one of the best ways to grow your network is by setting up meet-and-greets within your department, lab, or organization. These informal meetings are a great opportunity to learn about your colleagues’ backgrounds, roles, and career journeys, while also introducing yourself and exploring areas of interest for your future. Start by asking your mentor or manager if you can dedicate time to these sessions. Aim for no more than one per week. If schedules don’t align, consider alternatives like a coffee break, lunch, or a quick chat before or after the day begins/ends. Treat these meetings as a mix between casual conversation and an informational interview. Come prepared with thoughtful questions but keep the tone friendly and engaging. Afterwards, follow up with a LinkedIn connection request and a thank-you note. To find potential people to meet, ask your mentor or manager for recommendations and don’t hesitate to ask each person you meet if they know someone else you should connect with as well. These conversations can help you build meaningful relationships and uncover valuable insights into your company and field.

Networking at conferences

Professional conferences are an incredible opportunity for both networking and career development. Not only are conferences great tools for seminars and learning about your profession or current research in your field, but they are also excellent opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals, potential collaborators and industry leaders. Prepare ahead of time by making sure that your LinkedIn profile is up to date and that you have a stack of business cards to hand out. Look for opportunities to make meaningful new contacts at sessions such as poster presentations, seminars, mixers, and other social events. 

Making these connections is just the first step; maintaining them is where the real value lies. You wouldn’t want to reach out to someone years later that you have not engaged with since your first meeting and ask for a professional favor. So, make it a habit to stay in touch regularly. If you see that they’ve recently been published, send them your congratulations and celebrate their achievements. When they post or share an article, let them know what you think. If there is relevant news in your industry, let them know that it made you think of them. These gestures can help keep the relationship active and make sure your contacts don’t forget who you are. You never want your first message to be an ask. The relationship should be established long before that point.

Networking isn’t just about advancing your career; it’s about fostering meaningful relationships that can lead to collaboration, mentorship and shared growth for both parties, especially in STEM fields where teamwork and innovation are key. As your network grows, so will your access to research opportunities, career paths, and professional development resources. Whether you’re connecting on LinkedIn, meeting colleagues at your agency, national laboratory, organization, or attending conferences, every interaction is a chance to strengthen your support system and contribute to the STEM community. Remember, networking is a two-way street; it’s not just about what you can gain, but also about what you can offer. By building authentic relationships and staying engaged, you’ll be better positioned to thrive in your STEM journey and make a lasting impact in your field.

Source:

A Beginner’s Guide to Networking. Harvard Business Review