Highlights from the academic social networking panel
Lead with your science, not your appearance!
Use social media to your advantage and to reach out to people you normally would not meet
If you want to meet someone you don’t know, find someone you know to introduce you in an informal setting :)
Build an international network. You may think you don’t need it, but a trainee might!
Take advantage of casual interactions (i.e. lunches, social, shuttle-riding) at conferences
Follow-up with people you meet (send a quick reminder of yourself)
It’s never to early to establish interactions with your program officer (these people are super important for your career!)
Listen more than you talk
Become the person that comes to mind
Reach out to older and younger generations
It’s not about who you know, but rather who knows you!
People may forget what you said, but they do not forget how you made them feel
If someone seems like they’re not that into you, back off! Do not force social interactions
Note: Speakers included Natalie Tronson, Rebecca Shansky, Benjamin Saunders, Bita Moghaddam, Yasmin Hurd, Mark Baxter and Bruce McEwen. Writing this in retrospect so pardon my lack of attributing tips to each individual.