Tips for making/keeping professional connections?

Oct 2

Let your references know each time you apply for a job(s) and use the opportunity to reconnect/update.
Reach out on social media. Don’t be afraid to talk to other Biologists that way.
Volunteer for a day/weekend on a project/with a local Biologist.
Ask your current contacts to introduce you to other Biologists they know.
Twitter/X is a surprisingly great networking platform.
Join a professional group like TWS or ASM (run for positions!).
Connect with others on a personal level with interests beyond work.
Seek out a mentor, through an official program or more unofficially.
Bring business cards to conferences/events.
Have a concise elevator pitch prepared.
Ask professionals you might want to talk to if you can join them for a meal.
Don’t date/sleep with too many people in your field…
Interact with folks on social media. It’s not as weird as it might seem to just reach out.
Plan some time each week to reach out to current connections (10 min text/email).

What do you wish you knew about grad school before going?