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Networking That Works (Without Being Awkward or Cringe)
Manage episode 518165980 series 3543649
Most biotech professionals dread networking because it feels like cold calling, pushy, or inauthentic. If you've ever avoided reaching out because you didn't want to seem transactional or you felt stuck not knowing how to start a conversation, this episode is for you. Carina breaks down a strategic, human-centered approach to networking that leverages your natural curiosity as a scientist and turns it into your biggest career asset. You'll learn how to reconnect with former colleagues, build targeted networks within companies you want to work for, lead coffee chats that feel comfortable and genuine, and maintain momentum without burning out. Whether you're an introvert who freezes at networking events or someone who's been asking for jobs instead of building relationships, this episode will shift your mindset and give you scripts, strategies, and actionable steps to build a network that works for you long before you need it. Plus, Carina shares insider tips on volunteering, referrals, and how to follow up without feeling awkward. Ready to make networking less scary and way more effective? Join our free Biotech Career Coach Skool community for all the scripts, templates, and peer support to put these strategies into action.
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00:00 Why biotech networking feels like cold calling and how to reframe it
01:00 Networking for biotech professionals is a long game strategy
03:00 Stop asking for jobs through networking and build relationships instead
04:30 Leverage your curiosity as your biotech networking superpower
05:30 LinkedIn networking strategy for reconnecting with former colleagues
07:30 The virtual coffee networking offer that opens doors
08:30 How to grow your biotech network through warm introductions
09:00 Company targeted LinkedIn networking for biotech job seekers
11:00 The LinkedIn networking script for reaching out to biotech professionals
13:00 Turning networking coffee chats into job referrals
14:00 Biotech networking through volunteering for introverts
15:30 Networking coffee chats and the 80/20 rule for success
16:30 LinkedIn networking questions to prepare before your coffee chat
18:00 Following up on LinkedIn networking without being pushy
18:30 Daily networking habits that build your biotech career network
50 episodes
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