Learning to Dance

Jill Gilbert, MD

It is the season meetings. Thus, this editorial will focus on the importance of networking. Networking is an underutilized skill that requires practice but can have a high impact on shaping your career path.

During my time as a fellow, my mentor introduced me to individuals at professional meetings pertaining to my areas of interest. I did not realize it at the time, but this was the beginning of the development of my networking skills. Being from the South, I thought my mentor was just being collegial and friendly with his colleagues. In reality, this was a professional dance, and I needed to learn the steps in order to independently take to the dance floor. The ultimate goal of networking is to make connections that can lead to mentorship or sponsorship.

I am generally outgoing and gregarious. I am also an extroverted introvert. That means my bucket of energy is drained by the small talk with strangers that is part of networking. My energy is restored by quiet times, not by leaning into the discomfort of a meet and greet. This self-recognition is important because mindful management of the activation energy needed to network is critical to my successful networking.

Besides being someone who likes to recharge, I am also someone who likes to make my boss happy. Therefore, I have to view networking as part of my job, not only to promote my institution and its research but also to promote myself. National and international relationships can help build careers. Although social media networking is a growing reality, it lacks the element of personal relationship building and interpersonal skills that some potential mentors or sponsors require prior to endorsing someone for an opportunity.

I approach networking in the following ways:

1. I remember that networking is a part of my job and is not an indication of narcissism.
2. I actively dispel thoughts of self-doubt such as “They don’t really want to meet me” or “I don’t want to be a burden.”
3. I recognize that the individuals with whom I am networking have all been in my position before. They realize that this is part and parcel of life as a hematologist and oncologist. Thus, they expect to be networked with. I should not feel that my introduction is burdensome.
4. I recognize that although the initial approach is up to me, the outcome is out of my hands. The result of networking might be a new collaboration, a committee assignment, a new practice opportunity, or nothing at all. This is the equivalent of speed dating. Lack of concrete outcome does not mean failure, and it is not a personal insult.
5. I always come prepared. I bring business cards. I also take a quick look at the work of the person with whom I will be networking and ask genuine questions about their area of interest and their journey.
6. If pertinent, I will discuss information about myself or about my own work and professional goals, especially if that information aligns with their potential ability to sponsor or mentor.

Be fearless. At the next meeting, I challenge you to introduce yourself to 2 people each day, snap a selfie, make a new connection. It is part of your job and an important part of your professional journey.

Jill Gilbert, MD, is a professor of medicine and the director of the Hematology/Oncology Fellowship Program at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee.