Alumni Expert Blog: Networking
In 1995, Fancy graduated from the Faculty of Law. At the time, together with fellow student and friend Judith Kuijk, she founded the alumni circle Brabant, which is still active today.
Currently, Fancy works at Fontys University of Applied Sciences as a strategic advisor on regional cooperation and public affairs. Since this year, she is also a member of the General Board of the University Fund Limburg. At Fontys, Fancy gives trainings on networking, which provides its participants with insights and tools on how to use their network to achieve your goals. We asked Fancy to share some of her valuable insights and tips on networking, specially for her fellow UM alumni.
What is your definition of networking and why is it so important?
‘Networking is about helping each other. It involves the establishment and maintenance of connections in order to achieve a sustainable exchange between people, from a social and economic perspective.
Research by the Social Economic Council Youth Platform and the Social Cultural Planning Office report that the inequality of opportunity is broader than people think. It is also about the people you know: your social network, where you fit in and who you are. The Netherlands is transforming into a ‘network society’, where an invisible wall is created between young people with more and fewer opportunities. Young people without the right connections can find a job less quickly or get less help during financial setbacks. Someone who does not have access to social capital from their upbringing will – despite obtained diplomas - have a harder time.’
UM alumni meet each other all over the world during (networking) activities. How do you make the most out of those events?
‘Be yourself and do not merely define yourself by your job title: meet each other from person to person. Moreover, prepare for the event. Find out who will participate, think about whom you would like to speak to and what about. If you did not get a chance to talk to them, make sure to send a message afterwards, saying that you missed each other at the event but that you would still like to get in contact. The networking event is the 'bridge' to meet each other on the spot, but certainly also afterwards.’
‘Always be yourself and be genuinely interested in the other person.'
Building a network is one thing, but how do you maintain your network effectively?
‘Stay in contact, even if there is no specific occasion. For example, you can forward information and tips on topics you know the other person is interested in. Like research articles or events. If you are going to attend the event yourself, tell them it would be great if you could meet each other there.’
What is your most memorable networking experience?
‘A memorable experience was during my time at Techleap, a start-up programme of the Ministry of Economic Affairs. I was responsible for their strategy and for a programme about how large companies and start-ups could benefit more from each other. At one of the gatherings, I paired CEO’s of large companies such as ASML, DSM and Unilever with founders of start-ups. The CEOs imagined themselves back in the early days of their careers and the dreams and ambitions they had back then. This brought both worlds together beautifully.'
What final networking tip would you like to give your fellow alumni?
‘Always be yourself and be genuinely interested in the other person. If you are unsure how to start a conversation, ask the other person about their studies and how they experienced their very first day. That first day of studying is a milestone that many people can remember vividly. For me, this question has led to some of the most beautiful and personal conversations. Later you can transition to business talk.’
Text: Anouk van den Brink