Networking For Women

"𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗗𝗢 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗪𝗔𝗡𝗧 𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗠 𝗠𝗘?" This is the response a woman I met this week received from someone she reached out to. She shares, "So, I'm attempting to shift from operational-level relationships to strategic ones. I've noticed that when you invite someone for coffee, the immediate question often is, "What do you want from me?" Networking, at its core, should be straightforward, yet many women, including myself, find ourselves caught in the web of overthinking. 👉 Women often ponder the "𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁" way to network. 👉 Fear of being seen as "𝘁𝗼𝗼 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱" can deter women from making the first move. 👉 The worry of "𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗲𝗻𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵" in return can unnecessarily complicate networking intentions. 👉 Concerns over the "𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴" for outreach lead to missed opportunities. 👉 Misinterpreting a '𝗻𝗼' as personal rather than a matter of circumstance. 👉 The quest for the "𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗴𝗲" overshadows the importance of genuine interaction. Embracing simplicity and direct communication can significantly unburden the networking process, making it more effective and less stressful. For example: "Hello [Name], I've admired your recent contributions to [specific field or project] and see a great opportunity for my own growth by learning from you. Understanding your schedule may be tight, I'm flexible and would appreciate it if we could find a convenient time for a 30-minute coffee discussion to explore your experiences. When might it be feasible for you?" One woman asked how she could reconnect with a sponsor after having not spoken to him for over a year without sounding transactional. I suggested she write something like this: "Hello [Sponsor's Name], I recently reflected on the pivotal role your sponsorship played in my success, especially after attending an enlightening event on sponsorship. It's been over a year, and I'd truly value the chance to reconnect and share how your support has been instrumental to my growth. Could we find 30 minutes to catch up at your convenience? Receiving this message would likely make a sponsor feel deeply appreciated and genuinely surprised. Let's infuse RAW leadership into our approach to networking. Let's be 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗟 in our intentions, 𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗛𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗗 in authenticity, and 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗛𝗬 of trust and respect. How do you overcome nervousness when networking?

Me: Male dominated networking events can be hard for women to navigate. A male attendee at the networking event: No, they are not. TLDR; Please do not invalidate a woman’s (or anyone’s experience for that matter) when they voice it especially if you do not belong to that group. Chances are that if you do not belong to that group, you are not as familiar with what they experience. Being 5 ft tall, walking up to a group of 6 ft or so men is intimidating for me despite all the confidence I otherwise carry. Either I end up talking to women or people standing alone which is not optimal as anyone you’d really want to speak to is usually someone other people also want to talk to. Hence, they’re always surrounded. Recently, at OPEN Islamabad’s event Shehryar Hydri observed my hesitance of walking up to the group he was speaking to and excused himself to speak with me. These are the kind of gestures that can make these events more beneficial for all genders. Other things one can do: - If you are influential, consider making it a point to speak to a few women — they’re usually few any way - If you are organizing the event, structure it so that disadvantaged groups can get exposure to the relevant parties e.g. 5 min one-on-ones with a few individuals

Every time I walk into a cybersecurity conference networking session, the same thing happens: Step 1: Scan the room. Out of 500 people, I spot the 5 women instantly like we share some kind of radar. Step 2: Beeline. I head straight to them. Within minutes, we’re swapping career stories, laughing about conference coffee, and comparing notes on which talks are overhyped vs. which are must-attends. Meanwhile, I’ve barely said more than “hi” to many of the others. It’s not that I don’t want to network broadly, I really do. But here’s why I (and many women I’ve talked to) often end up sticking to that safe zone: A. It feels like walking into a group of men mid-discussion might mean interrupting or being ignored. B. Sometimes I think, “Will this be taken the wrong way if I approach one person alone?” C. And, there are times I just feel tired of being the only woman around and would rather connect with someone who gets it. Here’s the hard truth: networking should not feel like breaking into a locked room. It’s part of growing, learning, getting opportunities and right now, for many women, it’s not that. What I think could help: For conference organizers: Build formats where people don’t have to force their way in. Think small roundtables, structured networking, pre-event meetups where introductions are facilitated. For everyone else: When you see someone alone, pull them in. Invite them into your group. It costs almost nothing, but it matters a lot. Here's what I hope: That next time I walk into a networking room, I won’t need to scan for the few familiar faces first. Instead, I’ll feel like every circle is one I can walk into. Because the goal isn’t to create separate tables it’s to make sure every table has a seat for everyone. I’m curious what you think: Do you see any of this happen in your networking journey? Did someone do something that made networking more comfortable for you? Let’s make these rooms truly open. #NetworkingTips #WomeninCybersecurity #InclusionMatters

Networking as a young woman in corporate isn’t always about exchanging LinkedIn profiles. Sometimes, it’s about learning how to take up space: confidently, quietly, and intentionally. Here’s what I’ve learned (and unlearned) along the way: 1/ Learned: People remember how you make them feel, not just what you say. A thoughtful question > a rehearsed elevator pitch. 2/ Unlearned: You need to be extroverted to be well-connected. Some of my strongest connections started over quiet one-on-one coffees. 3/ Learned: Following up isn’t pushy, it’s professional. Staying in touch doesn’t mean being transactional. 4/ Unlearned: Networking only happens at events or conferences. Sometimes, it’s just helping a colleague, replying with context, or saying, “I’d love to learn more about your work.” Networking isn’t just about visibility. It’s about creating resonance, and showing up consistently and authentically. #networking #earlycareers

Navigating networking as a woman isn’t always straightforward. If you’ve ever felt unsure about where to draw the line - this is for you. The truth is, work opportunities often come through who you know. But sometimes socialising and networking start to blur into uncomfortable or even unsafe situations. How do you react? Here’s what I’ve learned and what I share with my mentees: 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐢𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐧𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤, 𝐛𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞. If a recruiter, professional, or mentor invites you to meet in person to share information or advice, check the details. Legit recruiters usually stick to company-hosted events. Professionals or potential mentors may offer coffee catch-ups - great! But stick to public, well-lit locations, especially if it’s a first meeting or you don’t know them well. Additionally, you could always opt to invite a friend. And if something feels off - whether it’s the venue, time, or vibe - it's 100% ok to propose a change. You don’t owe anyone blind trust. ↳“Thanks for the invite! I’d prefer somewhere central like [cafe name] at 5PM due to other commitments - would that work?” If someone says “Let’s meet at my office” and it's after hours, or if it's in a private space, decline politely and firmly. ↳“Thank you, but I’d prefer a more public space for our first meeting.” If they push back or get defensive, that’s a red flag. Anyone with good intentions will respect your boundaries, no questions asked. 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐢𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐬, 𝐠𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐞. If you receive creepy messages - commenting on your looks, inviting you to meet up, etc, respond with the below. ↳"I’m not comfortable continuing this conversation - please refrain from messaging me further.” And if it escalates, or if they're insistent about engaging with you under the guise of 'networking', just block. Immediately. Then tell someone. A colleague, friend, or even a LinkedIn connection. Silence only protects the wrong person. Your safety always comes first, every single time. We need to normalise setting boundaries, even in professional settings. Women out there, you can network, grow, and thrive without compromising your gut instinct or your safety. To everyone navigating networking: you’re not alone, and you don’t have to tolerate anything that feels off. Have you ever felt uneasy during a networking situation? How did you handle it? _____________ Follow Sharifah Hani Yasmin for career insights, scholarship info, and job opportunities! Kindly like and repost ♻️ so that others can benefit as well.

Navigating the Corporate World as a woman in her 20s💼 As a young woman 🌸 trying to carve out a space in the corporate world, I’ve come across a reality that’s difficult to talk about but impossible to ignore. Early in my career, I was taught to accept help and guidance from those with more experience. And while many have genuinely supported me, I’ve also encountered situations where the offers of help came with ulterior motives. Men have approached me with promises of mentorship, opportunities, or career advancement. At first, these gestures seemed sincere, but eventually, their true intentions surfaced they were less interested in my professional growth and more focused on personal favors, crossing professional boundaries. This is an unfortunate and uncomfortable reality that many women face in their careers, especially when they are young and just starting out. It’s disheartening because we all deserve respect and support without strings attached. Here’s what I’ve learned and what I want other young women to know: • Your worth is not tied to anyone else’s validation. You bring value to the table through your skills and intelligence, not through what others may try to take from you. • Setting boundaries is essential. Even if it feels awkward or risky, protecting your personal and professional space is necessary for long-term success. • It’s okay to walk away. If an offer of help or mentorship comes with conditions that make you uncomfortable, trust yourself enough to say no. The right opportunities will come, and they won’t demand compromises. We need to foster environments where women can grow professionally without fear of exploitation. Let’s keep the conversation going so that young women feel empowered to stand firm in their values and demand the respect they deserve. #WomenInLeadership #ProfessionalBoundaries #RespectInTheWorkplace #WomenEmpowerment

Connections That Matter – Beyond Transactional Networking #5: Nurturing Relationships: Networking is Building Trust, Not Just Asking for Favors Many people treat networking as a transactional exchange—they reach out only when they need something, then disappear until the next time they need help. But real networking is about trust and long-term connections, not just one-off requests. A Personal Story: Two years ago, I helped a young man with his job search. - I helped tailor his resume and cover letters. - I sent him job leads. - He landed interviews, and I coached him through them. - When he got an offer, I advised him on negotiation strategies. ✅ He got the job. He thanked me… and then? Radio silence. Fast forward 3 years later, I suddenly get a message from him: "Hey Khristine, can you share your calendar link? I have good news!" I was intrigued—maybe he wanted to reconnect? Maybe he was reaching out just to catch up? We get on a call. He tells me he was recently laid off and is applying for a job at a company where I have strong connections. And then—his real reason for reaching out: "I saw you’re well connected to people at this company. Can you introduce me?" I was dismayed. Another ask. No relationship-building. No check-ins, no updates over the past two years—just another request when he needed something. What’s Wrong With This Approach? 🚫 Treating networking as a one-way street – Only reaching out when you need something weakens trust. 🚫 No effort to maintain the relationship – Not checking in or engaging over time makes the connection feel hollow. 🚫 No reciprocity – It’s not about expecting something in return, but meaningful relationships go both ways. How to Network the Right Way: ✅ Check in even when you don’t need anything. A simple “Hope you’re doing well!” keeps the relationship warm. ✅ Celebrate wins together. Let your mentors and connections know how their advice helped you. ✅ Offer help before you ask for it. Share a resource, a contact, or an opportunity with someone in your network. ✅ Treat networking as relationship-building, not just problem-solving. The strongest networks are built on mutual respect and trust. Networking Tip: If you want a strong network that supports you in future job searches or big career moves, invest in those relationships NOW—not just when you need something. Have you ever experienced a one-sided networking exchange? How do you maintain long-term professional relationships? *** 💡 Want more actionable networking insights? Follow me for strategies on building meaningful connections that stand the test of time. #NetworkingTips #ProfessionalGrowth #RelationshipBuilding #ConnectionsThatMatter 📸 Throwback: Women in Tech Regatta 2020 with Melody Biringer, Zeynep Guler-Tuck and Laura Pasut. We’ve stayed in touch throughout the years since meeting in 2018.

Networking Without the Desperation How I Build Real Connections That Don’t Reek of Neediness Let’s be honest - most “networking” is just transactional begging wrapped in LinkedIn buzzwords. You can smell the desperation through the screen. If your outreach sounds like: ❌️ Let’s connect! I’d love to pick your brain. ❌️ Just looking to build my network! ❌️ Would be great to collaborate! …you’re not networking. You’re panhandling with a profile picture. Here’s how to do it right: ✅️ Stop Asking for Favors from Strangers No one owes you their time, contacts, or advice. If you wouldn’t walk up to someone at a bar and demand free coaching, don’t do it online. ✅️ Bring Value First Before you ask for anything, offer something useful: - Share a relevant lead - Introduce them to someone in their network - Send a resource that solves a problem they’ve mentioned ✅️ Ditch the Generic Outreach “Hi [Name], I came across your profile and…” is the equivalent of a robocall. Personalize or don’t bother. ✅️ Build Before You Need Real networking happens long before you’re job hunting or pitching. If your first interaction is an ask, you’ve already failed. ✅️ Know When to Walk Away Not every connection will turn into something. Chasing people who clearly aren’t interested makes you look needy - and worse, forgettable. The best networkers don’t collect contacts. They build relationships. And that starts with being someone worth remembering, not just another name in an inbox. Want to stand out? Be the person who gives before they take. The rest will follow. Do you agree?

Some ‘women in business’ groups are just polished versions of toxic workplaces—time to cut them loose. Others are just high-school cliques rebranded for adults. Don’t waste your time. Not all networking groups are worth it. Some can even hurt your business. I've had some unpleasant experiences. I had to take a step back and ask what value can I add to the group and vise versa. As a woman in business, you need to be smart about where you invest your time. Here are the networking groups you want to avoid: 1. The Gossip Clubs ↳ These groups focus more on socializing than business. ↳ They won't help you grow your business. 2. The Clique Networks ↳ These are closed circles where new members are not welcomed. ↳ They can make you feel isolated and undervalued. 3. The Unproductive Gatherings ↳ These groups have no clear agenda or goals. ↳ They waste your time with endless, directionless meetings. 4. The Sales Pitches Disguised as Networking ↳ These groups are just platforms for selling products. ↳ They don’t offer genuine support or opportunities. 5. The ‘Volunteer For Exposure’ Groups ↳ They frame unpaid work as a “great opportunity to get visibility.” ↳ You end up doing work they get paid for, with no real benefit to you. 6. The Funding Solicitors ↳ They regularly ask members to contribute financially to services for their clients or events. ↳ Yet, you get little to no return on investment, and your contributions go unnoticed. 7. The Over-Saturated Networks ↳ These groups boast about their large member base. ↳ But the reality is it’s too crowded for your voice to stand out or for you to establish meaningful connections. 8. The Hidden Agenda Groups ↳ They start as supportive and collaborative but end up pushing members to promote the leaders’ personal agendas or businesses. ↳ Your value to the group is determined by how much you support their vision rather than fostering mutual growth. 9. The “We’re All About Women’s Empowerment!” Frauds ↳ They use buzzwords like “empowerment” and “sisterhood,” but behind the scenes, it’s all about making money off members. ↳ They over-promise and under-deliver on actual business support. Choose your networking groups wisely. Your time is valuable. Invest it where it counts. What unpleasant experiences have you had in women networking groups?

"I'll reach out to the hiring manager when I'm ready to apply" said my client confidently as she spotted a dream role. The logic seemed sound. Apply first, then connect with the hiring manager. Perfect sequence, right? Wrong. By the time she applied, three internal referrals had already been shortlisted. The position was practically filled before it was even posted. The mistake? Transactional networking. I think our generation has been conditioned to see networking as something you do when you need something. Need a job? Start networking. Need a client? Start networking. Need a favor? Start networking. It isn't just limited to careers. Want more followers? Network. Looking for investors? Network. Need advice? Suddenly everyone's LinkedIn connections matter. Networking has changed from being about relationships to being about transactions. Don't get me wrong. I think strategic networking is essential. But most of us are hiding behind the fallacy of "perfect timing." What if they think I'm using them? What if they say no? What if I seem desperate? What if I don't have anything valuable to offer yet? The fear of rejection powered by the illusion of perfect timing. Unfortunately, authentic networking is an on-going activity and not a onetime task! Ask me about it... When I moved to America, I spent months volunteering at a food bank without asking for anything. I helped them improve their processes. Built genuine connections. I wasn't there for a job. But guess what? Those relationships led to my first opportunity. Relationships are built before you need them, not when you need them. The beauty of genuine networking is seen in reciprocity. The connection from month 1 to month 3 is nothing compared to year 1 to year 2. Year 3 connections can open doors you didn't even know existed. Consistent networking enables compound growth in everything. Career. Opportunities. Knowledge. Support. My client a month later took a different approach. "I started adding value first instead of asking for favors." She connected with professionals, shared insights, offered help. When another role opened, she already had three people vouching for her. "I needed to build relationships first, not just when I needed them." She got the job. Great opportunities come from existing relationships, not emergency phone a friend! #networking #careergrowth #jobsearch #relationships