Tips & Tricks
Whether you’re new to the field or deep into your career, networking can feel… weird.
Especially in industries like sexual wellness or reproductive rights, where the work is built around empathy, nuance, trust, and smashing taboos.
Traditional networking can feel misaligned and inauthentic.
I really believe there’s a sweet spot between flashing shiny business cards between handshakes and not networking at all.
So here’s a different approach — one that’s less about “selling yourself” and more about showing up with all the lovely things that make you, you.
🫶 Treat People Like People, Not Portfolios
You’ve probably been told to do research before an event. And sure, glancing at someone’s LinkedIn is useful. But that doesn’t mean you should walk into a conversation talking about their client list or dropping references to who they’ve worked with.
Ask how their week’s going. What recipes they’re loving. What they’re binging on Netflix. Keep it professional, but keep it human. More often than not, people are excited to talk about something other than work with like-minded people.
People remember how you made them feel — not your opinion on SEO strategy over a pint. Show up with curiosity and warmth. The rest will follow.
👗 Wear What Makes You Feel Like You
There’s a lot of “dress to impress” advice out there. But I’m a lifelong advocate for wearing what makes you feel like yourself. Polka dots, florals, your favourite stack of bracelets — go for it.
We’re not in a sector that demands grey suits to be taken seriously. The work speaks for itself. If a bold nail colour or a loud shirt helps you show up confidently, that matters too.
🧘 Don’t Feel Pressured to Work the Room
Quality over quantity. You don’t need to talk to everyone at the event. Sometimes one or two rich conversations are far more valuable than collecting 15 business cards you’ll never follow up on.
If big crowds make you anxious, hang near the snacks and start with whoever’s nearby. That counts.
🤳 Follow Up in a Way That Feels Natural
You don’t need a formal email template or rigid structure. A simple message like:
“Loved chatting with you about pelvic health yesterday. Would love to keep in touch.”
…goes a long way.
If something you talked about comes up in your feed or work, send it their way. That’s how relationships deepen. And if someone doesn’t respond, that’s okay too. The point is to stay open, not to keep score.
Final Thought
Networking doesn’t have to feel like a transaction.
When you lead with curiosity, honesty, and kindness, you’re far more likely to find the collaborators, clients, and friends who make this work sustainable and joyful.
Show up as yourself.
Ask real questions.
Wear what makes you feel great.
And treat people like people.
The rest will follow.
