<p>Everyone tells you networking is essential for your career. But what if the idea of walking into a room full of strangers and “working the room” makes you want to hide?</p><p>In this short episode, Jen and Michael unpack why networking can feel uncomfortable and how reframing what networking <em>actually is</em> can make it much easier.</p><p>Our key message: networking isn’t about collecting contacts or performing in crowded rooms. It’s about building genuine relationships over time.</p><p>In this episode, we explore:</p><ul><li><p>Why it helps to rethink what “networking” really means</p></li><li><p>A simple approach to conversations at conferences and events</p></li><li><p>Why a short, practiced response to “What do you do?” can make things easier</p></li><li><p>How to spot others in the room who might feel just as overwhelmed</p></li><li><p>Why humour and honesty can break the ice (“Networking is a bit awkward, isn’t it?”)</p></li><li><p>The often-overlooked importance of networking with your own colleagues</p></li></ul><p>Networking doesn’t have to mean working every corner of the room. Sometimes it’s as simple as introducing yourself, asking a thoughtful question, and following up later for a coffee or a conversation.</p><p>And remember: most people in the room are probably feeling just as awkward as you are.</p><p>You can find more great advice here: </p><ul><li><p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/21-networking-tips-i-just-gave-my-future-bosses-shane-o-leary-7fzwe/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/21-networking-tips-i-just-gave-my-future-bosses-shane-o-leary-7fzwe/</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.comm-it.com.au/training/7-tips-for-easy-and-effective-networking/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://www.comm-it.com.au/training/7-tips-for-easy-and-effective-networking/</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/networking-tips-early-career-scientists-lessons-from-science-tpfke/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/networking-tips-early-career-scientists-lessons-from-science-tpfke/</a></p></li></ul><p>Transcript: <a href="https://go.unimelb.edu.au/cph2" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">https://go.unimelb.edu.au/cph2</a></p>