Introduction
Any career advice you give or receive is sure to include a conversation on the importance of networking. For many, especially early on in your career, this can seem intimidating, but there is a reason everyone always encourages expanding your network. The values that networking can bring are endless. This may be a connection that helps you land your next job, start a collaboration, become a part of your support system and mentor team, or help build new skills. Our connection, made recently at the MSL Society Annual Conference, is just one example of that. We’ve come together to discuss networking from two perspectives: Rebecca (Becca), a PhD candidate and aspiring MSL; and Maria, an experienced MSL manager and MSL society board member.
Especially heading into a conference where you do not know a single person, networking can be intimidating. But remember you are there to learn as much as possible, and networking is sometimes the only way to gather some of the best insights. What is the worst that could happen? Just introduce yourself. The rest will build from there. If it clicks, it clicks; but if not, continue to introduce yourself. You never know who you are going to meet, and sometimes the most unexpected introductions become the most valuable. All of this may sound like a lot of work, but you get what you put in. Building your network will also build confidence, and the more you do it, the more comfortable you will be.
Although you should always be prepared when you know networking will be a focus, also be open to networking in unexpected ways and meeting anyone at any time. We have both made connections that led to new opportunities, new ideas, and friendships just through everyday life. You never know who you will run into at the grocery store, your library, or local events. At the end of the day, just being a kind person will take you far.
Becca’s Perspective
Early on, Becca understood the power of networking. Being from a small town, Becca took advantage of every opportunity she came upon, and these connections became some of her most valuable. One example of this was while she was working at her local library during her undergraduate studies. Through talking with a patron about what they did for work and her career goals, she was offered an internship she would never have come across otherwise. Being open to following interests and opportunities has led Becca to diverse experience in clinical laboratories, forensic science, terrorism, newborn screening, and osteoporosis.
Even while just visiting family, Becca has found unexpected but valuable connections. One example of this was highlighted while visiting her parents and one of her dad’s clients stopped by. Her dad was logging for someone who had a long-standing career at a large pharmaceutical company. Being open to just chatting and talking about life led to receiving a handwritten letter in the mail shortly after with potential opportunities if they were of interest. One of Becca’s key assets has become understanding people from all walks of life and working to understand and appreciate all points of view.
Understanding that you truly never know what you will get out of an experience or connection is one of the most important aspects of career development. Becca has incorporated this into her approach to networking and actively found that valuing personal connections and finding those who truly support you is the best way to further your career.
Building a network of people who are your biggest supporters will not only make day-to-day life more enjoyable but also connect you to people that you may not have met otherwise. When starting to explore the MSL role, Becca’s committee chair was more than willing to connect her to an MSL. After meeting and learning more about the position, Becca understood that it would take talking to several MSLs to truly understand the role. By seeking out guidance from another MSL previously involved in a webinar that sparked Becca’s interest in a career as an MSL, she knew she wanted to keep developing and attended the MSL Society Conference. Several meaningful connections were made, some of the most valuable being made by following up, being open to meeting anyone, and just building relationships naturally.
Maria’s Perspective
As a former Senior Manager, Maria continues to network and cultivate both new and existing relationships, understanding that the outcome of effective networking is much more than just expanding a contact list—it’s about building meaningful, lasting connections. From her days as an MSL, Maria realized that one of her key strengths was relationship building. She began by actively listening to those she met, seeking to understand them beyond just their professional roles. By engaging in thoughtful conversations and taking mental notes on unique details about each person, she laid the groundwork for connections that were personal and memorable for both parties.
Rather than approaching networking to gain something immediately, Maria’s focus has always been on building authentic relationships that transcend transactional needs. A follow-up message on LinkedIn or a thoughtful note after a meeting—genuinely expressing the impression someone made on her—became part of her natural process. This genuine approach sets the foundation for relationships that last a lifetime, with no expectation of reciprocity.
In the pharmaceutical and medical industries, where professionals often cross paths over the years, these authentic connections can lead to unexpected opportunities. A recent example highlights the strength of these enduring relationships. Maria attended a conference alongside a long-time friend she had met back in 2018 at a Women’s Summit. This friend invited Maria to another conference where Maria was able to reconnect with a Key Opinion Leader (KOL) she hadn’t seen in over six years. The KOL not only remembered her but also recalled the hospital tour and lab visit they shared years ago. They spoke about their former colleagues and discussed ways to continue their collaboration, deepening the connection even further.
This kind of networking demonstrates how investing in relationships with sincerity and thoughtfulness can create valuable, long-lasting professional connections. It is about cherishing the relationships you build because you never know when they will become significant again—and more importantly, the bond you form can turn into something more meaningful over time.
How Maria and Becca Met
Networking can spark a meaningful relationship which happened at the recent MSL Society Conference in Miami, FL. Maria and Becca’s meeting and exchange went far beyond the typical conference small talk. They discussed career paths, shared personal and professional experiences, and found common ground in their passion for the field. What began as a casual, thoughtful conversation at the conference quickly grew into something more substantial.
What made Becca stand out?
From the very beginning, Becca displayed an authenticity that immediately resonated with Maria. She didn’t approach the conversation with any expectations or requests but was genuinely interested in learning from Maria sincerely and thoughtfully. Maria noticed this rare quality—someone who sought a connection based on shared interests rather than transactional benefits. This authenticity made Becca memorable, and Maria reciprocated with equal sincerity. The instant connection they shared was uncommon, but Maria felt it was because they mirrored each other’s approach to building relationships.
Becca followed up with Maria afterward, sending her a thoughtful message that transformed their initial conversation into a lively and engaging dialogue. A collaborative effort that culminated in this article they co-authored and published together—an accomplishment born from mutual respect and shared enthusiasm.
This example perfectly illustrates what networking and the start of building relationships can lead to. Casual encounters, like the one at the conference, can evolve into valuable connections and meaningful partnerships. Becca’s persistence, authenticity, and willingness to learn left a lasting impression on Maria, leading to a successful collaboration. It underscores the power of being genuine, thoughtful, and proactive in nurturing relationships—often, these are the connections that yield the most rewarding and unexpected professional opportunities and sometimes even long-lasting partnerships.
Key takeaways for building meaningful connections
- Be Genuine and Authentic
When networking, focus on building real connections without expecting anything in return. People expect you to be you, whether you are chatting in a small group, up on stage, or one-on-one. Authenticity creates a lasting impression and fosters trust, which is the foundation of strong professional relationships.
- Follow Up Thoughtfully
After meeting someone, take the time to send a personalized message. Be prompt in sending a follow-up message. Humor, sincerity, or a thoughtful reflection on your conversation can go a long way in reigniting the connection and showing that you value the relationship. Express gratitude. People’s time is valuable, and respecting their time will continue to make a good impression.
- Find Common Ground
Meaningful conversations go beyond small talk. Take the opportunity to discuss shared interests, goals, and passions. This helps to build rapport and lays the groundwork for future collaborations. Finding mutual connections and shared experiences can boost trust and strengthen the relationship.
- Nurture the Relationship
Relationships don’t end after the first conversation. Stay engaged and follow-up periodically. Ongoing conversations will help develop your relationships. Update your network on professional achievements and ensure they have your current contact information. Even casual encounters can evolve into lasting professional partnerships with time and effort.
How you can build relationships by networking
Here are five key steps to leverage networking for both fresh perspectives and seasoned insights (Figure 1):
- Diversify Your Network
Engage with individuals from different industries, roles, and experience levels. A diverse network exposes you to a range of perspectives, from fresh ideas to seasoned wisdom, helping you stay innovative while also learning from proven strategies.
- Cultivate Genuine Relationships
Networking is not just about collecting contacts but also about building meaningful, reciprocal relationships. Networking should also not be approached as an information grab. It’s okay if you don’t ask every single question you may have. That is why you build your network: to have connections you can reach out to. The most successful networking is when the relationships you build continue to develop after the event. Offer value to your connections through advice, support, or collaboration.
- Stay Open to Learning
Approach each interaction with a learning mindset. Whether you’re speaking to someone new in their career or a seasoned expert, everyone has valuable insights. Many times, leveraging your network can be the only way to find out some information, including insights on company values and culture. Stay curious and ask thoughtful questions to gain a well-rounded understanding.
- Seek Out Mentors and Mentees
Find mentors who can offer seasoned advice and guidance based on their experience. At the same time, I act as a mentor to others who may offer fresh, innovative perspectives. This two-way learning keeps you both grounded and forward-thinking.
- Leverage Technology and In-Person Opportunities
Use both digital platforms (like LinkedIn) and in-person events (conferences, workshops) to expand your network. Virtual spaces can provide quick, global connections, while in-person interactions often lead to deeper, more authentic relationships. Balancing both avenues gives you access to a broader pool of knowledge and insights.
Conclusion
Building relationships through networking begins with authentic, meaningful interactions. Instead of focusing on what you can gain, prioritize building trust and rapport by showing genuine interest in the other person. Actively listen, ask thoughtful questions, and identify common ground based on shared values or experiences.
After your initial meeting, follow up with a personalized message that continues the conversation, demonstrating that you value the connection. Over time, nurture the relationship by staying engaged, offering support, or suggesting collaboration without expecting anything in return. This approach transforms networking into lasting, meaningful relationships that can lead to new opportunities and mutual growth.
To build lasting professional relationships, it’s important to be genuine, thoughtful, kind, proactive, and committed to maintaining connections. By consistently investing in diverse relationships and staying open to learning and mentoring, you can leverage networking to gain fresh perspectives and benefit from experienced professionals, ultimately driving personal and professional development.
About the authors:
Maria Abunto, MD, MPH
Dr. Maria Abunto’s career integrates medical expertise with a profound commitment to public health. She began her journey by earning an MD from the University of the East, followed by an MPH, magna cum laude, from the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health. She completed an Executive MBA at the Katz Graduate School of Business, graduating with high scholastic achievement and induction into the Beta Gamma Sigma International Business Honors Society, distinguishing her as one of the top 20% of her class.
Her professional path spans diverse roles that have enriched her understanding of healthcare’s intersection with technology and innovation. As an Epidemiologist at the National Institutes of Health, Dr. Abunto collaborated with the National Cancer Institute on pioneering cancer research, which sparked her passion for bridging the gap between research and its real-world application.
As a senior medical affairs manager, Dr. Abunto led a dynamic team, drawing on her experience in the diagnostic and medical device sectors. Her leadership was recognized in 2021 when she received the Medical Affairs Award of Excellence from Exact Sciences and the prestigious Medical Science Liaison of the Year honor from the MSL Society, a testament to her dedication and impact in the field.
Additionally, Dr. Abunto serves on the Advisory Board and as an onboarding trainer with the MSL Society. In this role, she mentors aspiring and current professionals shares her expertise and cultivates the development of future leaders in Medical Affairs. Her mentorship approach is rooted in her belief that knowledge-sharing drives healthcare innovation.
In 2024, Dr. Abunto’s contributions to public health were further acknowledged when she was awarded the Margaret F. Gloninger Service Award as an alumna from the University of Pittsburgh. This honor celebrates her decade-long dedication to community service. It recognizes her relentless efforts in organizing public health initiatives, from blood pressure screenings to spearheading COVID-19 vaccination clinics at local barbershops and salons in underserved communities. Her commitment to community health remains a driving force in her career.
In every endeavor she undertakes throughout her career, Dr. Abunto remains focused on a singular goal: to make meaningful contributions to the evolving healthcare landscape by advancing scientific understanding and improving patient outcomes.
Rebecca (Peters) Fontaine
Rebecca holds a BS in Forensic Science and BS in Biology, magna cum laude from the University of New Haven. She is currently a PhD Candidate in the Graduate School for Biomedical Science and Engineering (GSBSE) at the University of Maine. Her research at the MaineHealth Institute for Research (MHIR) focuses on understanding the role of the sympathetic nervous system in bone remodeling, specifically through beta-adrenergic signaling in osteoclasts.
Being from a small town, Becca has taken advantage of every opportunity to gain scientific experience, leading to her diverse background and panning experience in spaces including clinical laboratories, forensic science, newborn screening, terrorism, and osteoporosis. Within every role, she prioritizes improving human life. Becca’s first-hand experience as a patient allows her to approach the advancement of science and healthcare with an understanding of the patient’s perspective and diverse backgrounds, including those from rural areas.
Throughout her time at the Newborn Screening Translational Research Network, Becca worked on several projects and collaborated with outside researchers, clinicians, and newborn screening programs. She has carried the value of collaboration and outside perspective to her PhD studies, collaborating with experts in pharmacology, statistics, and AI to improve the reach and translational value of her research.
During her graduate studies, Becca has been involved in supporting trainee and institutional development. Becca has held several roles through both her graduate program and at MHIR. These include being on the GSBSE student executive committee and a trainee liaison through the student and postdoctoral association at MHIR, advocating for trainees and improving programming.
Being fortunate to have strong, supportive mentors throughout her own career, Becca has sought out development as a mentor. She has mentored an undergraduate student and stays involved in volunteer activities. By volunteering at ME Bioscience Day and BioME Career Exploration events, Becca has had the opportunity to inspire kids to consider a career in science. Through the American Society of Bone and Mineral Research, Becca also volunteered during Capitol Hill Day, helping to voice the need for fracture liaison services to be covered.
Becca will finish her PhD in 2025. She hopes to bring her passion for improving patient outcomes and eagerness to learn to her next role. She aspires to become an MSL to connect healthcare professionals to medical solutions to positively impact patient lives.
Have an opinion on this article? Send a message to the editor.