The Power of Networking

Leslie Roth Maloney, Pharm.D., Clinical Specialist, The Medical Affairs Company and Meredith Jannsen, Director, ASHP’s CareerPharm

Rising stars and senior leaders all have one thing in common—they know how to construct a strong network with others. In contrast to our parents and grandparents, who tended to stay with the same career and company for a lifetime, today’s landscape lends to a more flexible and less loyal work environment. In a time where employers are tightening up staff and seeking the most qualified of candidates, your experience will count, but your network and circle of colleagues will really make the difference.

Networking is more than just collecting business cards at events or social functions. To develop a successful network, it is important to understand the fundamentals of networking. You typically start to build your network at the early stages of your career, if not before that. The best way to develop your network is to really understand what you want to accomplish and connect your goals to the people who will be the most help to you in achieving those goals . Keep in mind that networking is a two-way street: it’s more about giving than taking. Like many new endeavors, getting started is always the hardest part.

However, networking opportunities are everywhere. Perhaps you’re a member of an organization or pursuing a degree or there is a new research project in which you can become involved. Use these opportunities to meet new people.

Some people are natural networkers. Approaching a crowd or even another individual is second nature for them. For others, it’s not as easy, but it is essential. Try to keep things in perspective. Developing your network is not a popularity contest. It is a means of sharing information that you have to help others and learning from others in the same fashion. This, of course, requires you to put yourself out there. Even the most shy of individuals must learn to communicate beyond his or her circle of friends and family.

Being prepared is a key component in networking, so it is important to think about every situation you are in and how you can maximize the networking opportunity. At a conference or meeting, a break or lunch period can open doors for interjecting your own thoughts on what is being taught and for learning someone else’s perspective. Be clear about how you feel, offer suggestions to your listeners, and state your desired outcome. Ideally, you will begin to develop solutions together and enough rapport to continue communications on other subjects that matter.