After many great conversations at recent events, I’ve been refl ecting on what really makes networkingmeaningful — and why it’s such a powerful catalyst for both personal and professional growth.
Success - for both you and your company - often comes down to one thing: your network. And here’s the truth: only you can build, nurture, and make use of it.
Networking isn’t about collecting business cards or polite small talk. It’s about creating potential - by provoking coincidences, thinking creatively, and daring to connect ideas, people, and possibilities.
Challenge yourself to change your approach:
Instead of asking “How are you?”, try something that opens up the conversation and gives insight into what drives the person in front of you. For example:
- What brought you to this event?
- What part of the presentation resonated most with you?
- What are you currently most curious or excited about?
People connect with your energy, not your title.Be curious. Be authentic.
Mindset
- Be confident, warm, and friendly - others are likely just as uneasy as you.
- Go out of your comfort zone - this is work, not hiding behind familiar faces.
- Bring your personality - curiosity, positivity, and genuine interest make you memorable.
Preparation
- Check the guest list (if available) - identify who you’d like to meet and possible links.
- Know your key messages - what do you want to share or learn? Be ready for the unexpected.
- Have a short, passionate “elevator pitch” (20–30 sec).
- Appearance matters - dress as you, with confidence. When you feel comfortable, you radiate it.
At the Event
- Work the room - don’t cluster with colleagues.
- Ask questions that spark real dialogue.
- Connect people if you see overlaps.
- Focus on what you can give to others, and not primarily on what you might gain yourself.
- Listen actively - focus on quality over quantity.
- Be generous with your contacts. Introduce people to each other - even people you just met.
- Be memorable - in a positive, authentic way.
- Exit gracefully - “Good luck, let me know how it goes!”
- And yes - drink coffee and dive on people in the coffee queue!
Post Event
- Follow up within 2 days - email or LinkedIn while energy is still fresh.
- Personalize your message - mention something from your conversation.
- Track and tag your contacts - think long-term, not one-off.
- Keep connections alive - small gestures go a long way.
Networking can be trained like a muscle - with practice, purpose, and presence. By putting yourself out there, sharing what excites you, and staying curious, you increase your chances of encountering the kind of “luck” that transforms opportunities into impact.
Pernilla Isberg | Director, AstraZeneca BioVentureHub
Pernilla Isberg is a pharmacist with +30 years of experience from working within AstraZeneca with marketing, clinical trials and cross-functional project management.
Since 2018 Pernilla is Director at AZ BioVentureHub – a unique innovation platform located within AstraZeneca’s Gothenburg R&D site in Sweden, supporting emerging companies to grow.
Access to AstraZeneca’s scientific expertise and facilities, collaboration opportunities, and a vibrant community. The focus is on non-competitive synergies and shared challenges we can solve together across Data & AI, DeepTech, SustainTech, and Pharma (new modalities and drug delivery technologies).
After many great conversations at recent events, I’ve been reflecting on what really makes networking meaningful — and why it’s such a powerful catalyst for both personal and professional growth.
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