Women and Networking: Maintain Your Safe Space
I remember as a young professional that I was in awe of a new up-and-comer who within a few months of starting at the company was already playing golf with a senior leader. But then I realized these bonds are more easily created among men, where there were no risks of complications (for lack of a better word) or HR violations. My female colleague shared the same sentiments with me. A woman trying to establish herself in a man’s world is automatically up against a lot and every female professional has experienced what it is like to go against the grain. But networking is still part of the game and despite challenges, we have to do it. We also have to do it with safety in mind.
The most important and unique job advice I have ever received was from a speaker at a job seeker’s seminar for arts professionals. He gave advice I had never heard before and have never heard again—it has stuck with me ever since. He said this to everyone in the audience, not just women. But as a female professional, I took heart to this advice even more. The speaker said very plainly, “If you are ever in an interview or a situation where you feel unsafe, get up and leave.”
Sometimes walking away is the right thing to do. As you progress in your career and continue to build your network, remember these safety tips when networking:
- If you don’t know the person colloquially, they should never approach you with anything more than a handshake. They should always be professional. You are not friends. If the person acts in a manner that is not professional, that should be a red flag that the relationship is not worth your time.
- Never stray from the agreed meeting place. If the person calls last minute to change the location with whatever excuse, try and reschedule. Politely decline any requests to go somewhere else after the meeting. Always pick a public meeting space like a coffee house. Remember that you both agreed to this meeting place and time beforehand. Any requests for changes to location can be a red flag for bad intentions.
- Listen to your gut. If things feel unsafe, leave or find a staff member who can help. More restaurant owners now are providing training to their employees for intervening when their patrons are in dangerous situations[i]. It’s okay to distance yourself from this person. You will find other people who will truly support you in your career journey.
Good luck and stay safe out there, ladies. I believe in you.
[i] https://www.standupresources.com/stand-up-campaign/stand-up-training
https://www.thecenteronline.org/education/community-education/raise-the-bar/
bettytrinh 