What you don't say can hurt you

With Deb Koen Careers consultant

Do you tend to skip lunch or dine with the same familiar colleagues? Are you someone who avoids or rushes through personal introductions? Have you ever passed up a chance to hear a guest lecturer or attend a work-sponsored social event? How often do you flippantly reply with a wave and a one-word response to the enquiry: “How are you doing?”?

Each of these scenarios, often a missed opportunity, offers the potential to connect with others, learn about another area of research or gain support for an idea. You never know when something you reveal in passing may connect in a useful manner with another scientist.

Architects are fostering connections by including open common areas in their plans. Lab designers are creating layouts that maximize the chance of encounters that might lead to creative collaboration or a new direction (see Nature 424, 718–720; 2003).

Your approach doesn't have to be contrived; it simply requires openness to new people and a wish to communicate.

The next time you introduce yourself, speak with purpose. Slowly and clearly say your first name, then your full name, so the person you're speaking to has a chance to hear and remember you. Be prepared with a simple two-to-three sentence description of who you are and what you do, in layperson's terms for those not immersed in the same research as you.

Be ready for the casual conversations that can occur even in a quick e-mail. When asked, “What's up?” have in mind a response that may be of interest to the other person.

As for lunches and work gatherings, you don't have to exhaust the social circuit. Just be on the lookout, and pick one to attend from time to time. Have a few people in mind with whom you would like to connect. Coming prepared with your brief introductory remarks will help build a rapport and ease your apprehension.

A bit of forethought about how to present yourself and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone will go a long way in maximizing these chance encounters.