Effective Research Networking Tips for Researchers

Networking—a crucial academic research skill for career advancement— can be challenging, particularly for early career researchers. Academic researchers are often confused and frustrated by the concept of networking because it is not straightforward, and they are not sure where to start. Introverted academic researchers often sit by themselves at conferences with drink in hand because they find networking for research impossible. In fact, some studies have found that networking can make people feel dishonest, phoney, and selfish¹.

Importance of networking

Nonetheless, networking is a crucial research skill for students and early career researchers, who likely find it the most intimidating. There are several benefits to research networking. It is a great way to start new collaborations, share research, learn about funding opportunities, and connect with journal editors and reviewers². Networking also enables shared learning, the transfer of technology, and the chance to collaborate on projects. Data shows articles based on collaborative research receives more citations due to the diverse range of authors³.

Networking tips for researchers

Now that it’s been established that this is a key skill for academics to build relationships and advance their careers, here are some effective networking tips for researchers.

1. Attend more conferences

This is a no-brainer, but academic conferences present a wonderful opportunity to network with peers working in the same or related fields. Interactions with like-minded peers can provide a new perspective to your research, even providing new direction for future research. Virtual modes are now available for some conferences, which is great for researchers who find in-person meetings challenging and nerve-wracking. Although virtual meetings lack the personal touch of in-person encounters, they are accessible, affordable, and user-friendly. The availability of recorded sessions makes it simple for participants to join the meetings at their convenience and serves as a great resource for future use.

2. Communicate your research

Researchers can maximize their conference experience by choosing to present their work either orally or through academic posters. The poster or oral presentation gives you a platform to communicate your research and receive feedback from other researchers. It also enables colleagues in the same or related fields to approach you. This could be a good place to start networking since it’s typical for most researchers to feel at ease discussing their work in public and with individuals who appear interested in it. The next time you present your research at a conference, ask questions and engage in a two-way conversation with researchers. This would allow you to build relationships with these researchers and broaden your network.

3. Don’t lose touch with your network

Building strong networks call for effort and communication, and these two factors are crucial to the networking process. We have a propensity to drift apart, so sometimes, the connections we make at conferences can be brief and fleeting. The best way to strengthen a relationship is to follow people you meet on various social media platforms, share their work, and leave comments on their most recent articles. Most researchers value emails praising their work, and keeping in touch over social media will only help expand your network. As one of the tips for researchers to search for a research job, use your network to your advantage. Let your network know you are looking for job so they will keep you in mind when suitable positions become available.

4. Build an online presence

Social media has emerged as an essential tool for networking in the modern world. Researchers can create an online presence for themselves by sharing their work on different platforms and using these channels to interact with peers, ask questions, and provide assistance with others’ research-related needs. These online platforms, like Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn, frequently offer a casual setting for two-way interactions that lead to idea sharing, forming of partnerships, and learning about the most recent developments in your area of expertise. Remaining active on social media allows you to have conversations with researchers all over the world and establish some enduring professional connections.

5. Sign up for workshops and webinars

Training workshops are the simplest means to expand your academic network and meet more researchers. Despite being time-consuming, workshops offer researchers enough exposure and time to ask questions in person, discuss your research, and connect with instructors and other attendees in the interactive sessions. Similarly, participating in webinars can be an excellent educational tool that enables you to meet active researchers working in your area of interest. Learning to connect with researchers who have the potential to become collaborators on future projects are among the top skills of a good researcher.

6. Become a member of academic associations/societies

A common advice for future researchers is to join academic associations and learned societies as you advance in your research career and gain experience in your field. The resources and information available through these groups and societies not only keep you abreast of the latest in your field but also help you learn about related conferences, job openings, and calls for papers. These associations also frequently provide members with added benefits, such as fee waivers, training, publishing, and funding advice and support. However, to leverage these advantages, it’s important to be an active member of the group.

7. Make a website and write blogs

Regardless of where you are in your career, one of the effective networking tips is to have a personal website. It comes in handy for those in the final year of their PhD and early career researchers looking for career opportunities. The link to your site can be added to your social media platforms, effectively acting as an online resume that is accessible to anyone with interest in your research. You can create blog posts summarizing your research, research interests, and ideas, future goals, and can even have a short biographical statement on the website. Remember to include your email address and phone number on your website so that prospective employers and researchers can contact you.

A final advice for future researchers – networking effectively can boost your output, productivity, and research caliber. Your network can aid in navigating career paths, securing funding, and also providing a sense of belonging by listening to your struggles and creating long-lasting connections. If you are still having trouble, keep in mind this effective networking tip: find common interests to introduce yourself to researchers at events; if not, mention any skills you have that might be useful for working with them in the future. If you are still at a loss for words, simply express gratitude and appreciation for their work and connection. Happy networking!

References

1. Clark, D. If Networking Makes You Feel Dirty, You’re Doing It Wrong. The Wall Street Journal, 2021. https://www.wsj.com/articles/if-networking-makes-you-feel-dirty-youre-doing-it-wrong-11631883600
2. George, E. Networking made easy: Top 10 tips for the smart and savvy researcher. Editage Insights, 2020. https://www.editage.com/insights/networking-made-easy-top-10-tips-for-the-smart-and-savvy-researcher
3. Puljak, L. & Vari, S. G. Significance of research networking for enhancing collaboration and research productivity. Croat Med J 55, 181–183 (2014).