Networking can become increasingly important as your career develops, helping to raise your profile, create opportunities for collaboration and funding, and build a wider network of professional support. But that doesn’t mean you have to become someone who enjoys ‘schmoozing’ at conference receptions. 

This practical Nature Careers article reframes networking as something researchers are probably already doing and offers manageable ways to become more intentional about it. It includes advice on preparing for events, starting and leaving conversations, focusing on curiosity rather than self-promotion, setting realistic networking goals and following up afterwards. Its central message is reassuring: networking doesn’t need to be loud or artificial. A few genuine connections can be far more valuable. 

Use the Nature article for practical ideas about making connections in the moment, and the White Rose resource to think about how you build and sustain a network that supports your longer-term career and research goals.