As an MSc Management student at the University of Edinburgh Business School, I recognise that networking is a fundamental skill for any aspiring business leader. Building strong professional relationships can open doors to new opportunities, career growth, and meaningful collaborations. That’s why I attended the Employability & Careers Expo 2025, where I had the chance to participate in the 'Networking Effectively' session led by Stuart Fenwick from HumanKind, a people-focused consultancy dedicated to helping individuals and organisations develop essential skills for personal and professional growth.
How to start a conversation with confidence
One of the most challenging aspects of networking is initiating a conversation. During the session, the speaker from HumanKind shared key strategies to make this process smoother:
- Confidence – Don’t be afraid to say hello! The key is to "fake it until you make it"—the more you practice, the more natural it becomes.
- Pick a topic – Find a shared interest to break the ice. It could be something related to the event, the industry, or even a mutual connection.
- Let them pick the topic – People love talking about their interests. By actively listening and engaging with their topic, you can create a meaningful conversation.
Exiting the conversation and following Up
Networking isn’t just about making a great first impression—it’s also about knowing how to exit a conversation gracefully and follow up appropriately. Some of the key takeaways included:
- Thank them – A simple "Thank you for your time, it was great speaking with you" can leave a lasting impression.
- Exchange contact details – Whether it’s LinkedIn, email, or a business card, make sure to establish a way to stay in touch.
- Structure the follow-up – A well-crafted follow-up message can turn a brief interaction into a long-term professional relationship.
Putting networking into practice
After the session, I had the opportunity to apply what I had learned during the networking session at the Business School concourse. Engaging with fellow students, sharing experiences, and discussing career aspirations was an enriching experience. It reinforced the idea that networking isn't just about exchanging contact details—it’s about building genuine relationships.
A memorable experience at the Employability & Careers Expo
Attending this event also gave me the chance to connect with Stuart Fenwick, the session speaker from HumanKind. A casual conversation after the session reinforced the importance of approaching networking with authenticity and curiosity.
The Expo: A hub of career insights
The Employability & Careers Expo 2025 was packed with various insightful sessions covering topics such as AI in job applications, personal branding, consulting, and finance careers. The event was a great platform for students to gain industry knowledge, interact with professionals, and explore potential career paths.
This experience reinforced my belief that networking is more than just professional interactions—it’s about learning, growing, and creating opportunities. Whether you’re looking for career advice, mentorship, or potential collaborations, every connection you make can have a lasting impact.