How to Approach Panelists for Networking

Here’s a secret to help you supercharge your networking. Stop trying to hit home runs with every touch point. Instead, focus on small wins that move the conversation forward. I see so many people making big / vague asks up front: “Can you hop on a 30 minute call?” “Tell me how you accomplished [Big Thing].” These people are super busy and they’re receiving this email from you - a total stranger. The last thing they want is another item on their to do list. Instead, start with a small, simple ask that they can reply to in <30 seconds. Here’s a formula that's been really effective for me: “Hey [Name], your experience in [Industry] is really impressive. I know you're busy, but I just had to ask: If you had to start over and work your way back to [Insert Achievement], would you do A or B? A: [Insert Actionable Thing] B: [Insert Other Actionable Thing]” This formula makes is incredibly easy for them to say "I'd do A" or "I'd do B." Now the door is open! Go do thing A or thing B, get results, and report back. Let this person know you took their advice and then ask for more. This positions you as someone who values their advice and has an action bias -- someone worth investing in. That's going to lead to deeper conversations and stronger relationships!

I get a lot of messages from folks looking for support and guidance, whether it’s about growing a speaking career, advancing in a role, or starting a business. I've reached to folks too and been turned down or ignored plenty of times. In hindsight it's probably because I didn't follow these guidelines: 1️⃣ Be specific. Instead of “Can I pick your brain?” try something like, “I’m working on breaking into this industry and could use some advice on this specific challenge…” or “I’d love tips on structuring my keynote.” The clearer you are, the easier it is to help. 2️⃣ Be flexible. Someone recently told me, "I’ll meet you anywhere, anytime within 10 minutes of your house…”—and that kind of openness caught my attention. Remember, when you’re asking for someone’s time without cost, being flexible (and eager) goes a long way. 3️⃣ Be kind. It sounds simple, but a warm, genuine acknowledgment of someone’s time and expertise can mean a lot. Something like: "Hi [Name], I’ve been following you on LinkedIn, and your recent post about [topic] really resonated with me. I admire how you handle tough conversations. I’m facing a challenge at work and would love your thoughts. I promise to keep it under 10 minutes. I know this is a favor, so I’ll be as flexible as I can." 🌟 See how these three steps work? It’s about being specific, flexible, and appreciative. It makes it easier for the other person to say yes. 💡 Bonus tip: You don’t have to worry about offering something in return. Just be upfront about asking for a favor and express genuine gratitude. If this approach speaks to you, I hope it helps make your future networking asks a little easier!

Want to collaborate with a senior scholar? There is no substitute for building a personal relationship. I get this question a lot from grad students and early-career researchers: “How do I connect with someone more senior I’d like to coauthor with?” Two common paths work—and a third that mostly leads to silence. Path 1: Meet them at a conference, then follow up. This one works best. It’s not about being flashy or aggressive. It’s about being present. Go to their talk. Ask a thoughtful question. Engage with their ideas in a genuine way. Introduce yourself after - either the session, at the social event, or over breakfast. Mention shared interests. Don’t pitch a project. Get to know them. Follow up with a quick note. Reference your exchange. At the next conference, suggest meeting for breakfast to exchange ideas. This isn't networking—this is relationship-building. So be patient. Sometimes, it takes a couple of conferences for a project to happen.\ Sometimes, it never happens, and you make a friend. Either outcome is acceptable. Right? Path 2: Ask for an introduction through someone they trust. Underused. But. People tend to transfer trust from a friend to their friend's friend. So, if someone you trust knows the senior scholar, don't be afraid to ask for an introduction. Be specific: “I’m working on X, I admire their work on Y, and would like to work on X with Y.” If they offer to make introduction, draft a 2–3 sentence intro they can forward. If they tell you it's not a good idea, let the idea drop. Make it easy. If connected, ask questions. Be a real person—not a grant pitch or 30 second elevator pitch. Do not flex. Do not grandstand. Do not overpromise. Just be you. Ask for a cup of coffee over zoom or at the next conference. Even if they are too busy to take on a new project, you will make a valuable contact + get great advice. Senior scholars love dispensing advice - if approached properly - and not pressured. Path 3: Cold email the potential coauthor. This almost never works. It’s not rude—it’s just uncomfortable. Most senior scholars aren’t looking to collaborate with people they don’t know. Not bc they hate strangers, but bc they’re already stretched thin. So if you’re hoping to build that a mentoring or coauthor connection? Start with getting to know them. Start by being in their orbit. Start showing up. Ask questions. Ask about their work. Get to know them. Let the relationship grow before you ask for their time. Before you ask to collaborate. Seriously. So much of collaboration revolves around positive energy - take your time to let it grow. When that energy grows, you'll know. Then ask - or let them ask - it's worth the wait!! Best of luck! #academicjourney