Networking for Nerds provides a step-by-step guide to understanding how to access hidden professional opportunities through networking. With an emphasis on practical advice on how and why to network, you will learn how to formulate and execute a strategic networking plan that is dynamic, multidimensional, and leverages social media platforms and other networking channels. An invaluable resource for both established and early-career scientists and engineers (as well as networking neophytes!), Networking for Nerds offers concrete insight on crafting professional networks that are mutually beneficial and support the advancement of both your career goals and your scholarly ambitions. "e;Networking"e; does not mean going to one reception or speaking with a few people at one conference, and never contacting them again. Rather, "e;networking"e; involves a spectrum of activities that engages both parties, ensures everyone s value is appropriately communicated, and allows for the exploration of a win-win collaboration of some kind. Written by award-winning entrepreneur and strategic career planning expert Alaina G. Levine, Networking for Nerds is an essential resource for anyone working in scientific and engineering fields looking to enhance their professional planning for a truly fulfilling, exciting, and stimulating career.

Networking for Nerds provides a step-by-step guide to understanding how to access hidden professional opportunities through networking. With an emphasis on practical advice on how and why to network, you will learn how to formulate and execute a strategic networking plan that is dynamic, multidimensional, and leverages social media platforms and other networking channels.An invaluable resource for both established and early-career scientists and engineers (as well as networking neophytes!), Networking for Nerds offers concrete insight on crafting professional networks that are mutually beneficial and support the advancement of both your career goals and your scholarly ambitions."Networking" does not mean going to one reception or speaking with a few people at one conference, and never contacting them again. Rather, "networking" involves a spectrum of activities that engages both parties, ensures everyone's value is appropriately communicated, and allows for the exploration of a win-win collaboration of some kind.Written by award-winning entrepreneur and strategic career planning expert Alaina G. Levine, Networking for Nerds is an essential resource for anyone working in scientific and engineering fields looking to enhance their professional planning for a truly fulfilling, exciting, and stimulating career.

Foreword xiIntroduction xiii1 The Importance of Networking and the Hidden Platter of OpportunitiesTM 1Eight Networking Myths 4Understanding the Hidden Career Market 10Breaking into the Hidden Job Market 11Chapter Takeaways 14Notes 142 Understanding and Articulating Your Value Proposition 15Your Unique Problem-Solving Abilities: The Cornerstone of Your Value 16Brand, Attitude, and Reputation: The Networking Trifecta of Triumph 24Your Brand Statement/Elevator Pitch/30 Second (or Less) Commercial 33Chapter Takeaways 42Notes 433 Determining the Right Opportunities for Me 45The Concept and Pursuit of Bliss 45Your Personal SWOT Analysis 47Your Career Opportunities 50Chapter Takeaways 54Note 544 Establishing Your Brand and Reputation to GainAccess to the Hidden Platter of OpportunitiesTM 55Always Ask Questions 55Asking Questions of non-STEM Professionals 57Stupid Questions 62Seeking Mentors: The Importance of Mentor-Protégé Partnerships in Networking 63Being Professional 71Professional Etiquette in Networking 74The Tale of the BallO' Butter 75Taking Advantage of Every Opportunity 85Failure is the Ultimate Opportunity 88Self-promotion - The Right Way 90Chapter Takeaways 105Notes 1055 Developing Your Networking Strategy 107Identifying your Goals for Networking 107The Art and Science of the Thank You Note 121Following Up 124Organizing Your Network 127Continuing to Follow Up and Look for Opportunities toExchange Value over Time 127Chapter Takeaways 1286 Identifying People for Your Networks 129Start With Who You Know 129Institutional Networking 130Diversity Groups within Organizations and Companies 132Professional Societies 133Conferences 139Articles 149Regional Industrial Representatives: Regional Economic Development Organizations, Chambers of Commerce, Industry "Cluster" Associations 153Alumni Associations 161Regional Philanthropic Organizations 164"Young Professionals" Societies 165Religious and Political Affiliations 166Regional STEM-related Activities 166Spontaneous Networking - On an Airplane, Train, Taxi 168Other Places to Meet People 170Create Your Own Networking Opportunity! 171Chapter Takeaways 171Notes 1727 Networking at an Event 173Pre-Event Strategies 173Attending the Event 176Conversation Starters 178Conversations Enders 181If the Person is a Jerk 182Following Up 184Chapter Takeaways 184Note 1848 Social Media Networking 185Principal Pillars of Social Media Networking 187Preparation 189Building your LinkedIn Presence 191LinkedIn Groups 197Facebook 201Twitter 203Other Social Media Sites 206Launching a Blog 207Your Klout Score 209Chapter Takeaways 209Notes 2109 The Networking Continuum 211Index 219