The Power of Networking

The Power of Networking

“When your name comes across the hiring manager’s desk for any type of promotion, the last and worst question you want them to ask is, ‘Who is this?’"

This remains one of the best pieces of advice we've received as MedTech professionals. The executive who shared this is now a global VP, at the top of their game, at one of the largest MedTech corporations. They’ve hired thousands of people in their career. You’ve likely heard the saying, “It’s all about who you know!”—but we encourage you to think instead, “It’s all about who knows YOU!”

With this shift in perspective driving the context of this blog, ask yourself: Who knows you, and how do they know you? What’s your brand, your reputation, and what motivates you? We believe three simple keys can elevate your networking experience.

The Origins of Networking

Professional networking traces its roots back to the 1940s and 1950s, when business networking was more exclusive and private. Executives would gather at social clubs and country clubs to discuss business deals and connect with potential partners. The term "networking" became popular in the late 1970s and early 1980s, as the baby boomer generation entered the workforce. It was intended to encourage people to socialize for business gains.

How do you know who to network with? Narrowing down your "networking tribe" is crucial. In this context, a tribe refers to people with similar goals and aspirations, and in many networking circles, they may even share overlapping professional synergies with you. We personally know multiple multi-millionaire entrepreneurs who have built networks among their target audiences, which naturally leads to organic buyers.

Are you showcasing your professional talents and abilities through networking? If not, why not? Consider the true purpose of networking and make a strategic plan to integrate yourself into the networking scene.

Thinking Outside the Box

Many talented professionals describe networking as "boring" or say it’s simply "not their thing." If you feel this way, ask yourself these questions:

1. Is this my tribe?
2. Where am I networking?

After three to six months of networking within an organization, take time to assess your participation. Have you benefited from the organization in terms of new connections, positive energy, opportunities, new exposure, or anything else that wasn’t in your life before?

Additionally, have you provided value to others in the organization? Don’t underestimate your impact—you should always seek to bring authentic and sincere value to every conversation.

Be intentional about keeping an open mindset. Long gone are the days of networking in tan pants, a blue jacket, and a white or blue shirt. Today, many well-respected networking organizations are exchanging impactful, problem-solving ideas on a rooftop—perhaps in Chicago. The landscape has changed, and so should your mindset. According to Google’s AI, Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2021) is tech-savvy, socially conscious, and diverse. If you’re not using social platforms like LinkedIn to network, you’re cutting yourself short. The new wave of social and professional networking is here. Embrace it.

The Importance of Follow-Up

We recently met a 10-year Pharma Rep who admitted, “85% of my job would disappear if people just followed up and did what they said they were going to do.” Think about that—85% is a huge percentage of people who fail to follow up. Be the 15%.

It’s one thing to meet high-caliber individuals who can expose you to opportunities aligned with your goals. It’s another to remain connected with them, seek their feedback, and showcase your grit, enthusiasm for growth, continued development, and openness to mentorship. Stand out because you are different.

Onward and upward,
Anatomy of MedTech Authors