Networking in the Field of IR/E

The past few years of virtual conferences and convenings created a unique networking environment for IR/E professionals. Now that conferences and other events are moving back in person, how can we use the best of both worlds to create an expanded networking community that connects us both in person, if we have the time, ability, and resources to travel, and virtually, to expand our community of colleagues even further? This month I connected with two well-connected IR/E professionals to share their insights on ways to network within the postsecondary education community in creative ways.

IR/E Networking Experts

· Claire Goverts, Specialist II, Institutional Research, Monroe Community College

· Bethany Miller, Director of Institutional Research & Assessment, Macalester College

Seek out ways to engage with established events and groups

When you are planning to attend an event, reach out in advance to your current network to see if any of them are attending or if they can introduce you virtually to someone who is. When you know another person, it makes it easier to meet others you do not yet know. Also, take advantage of the networking tools connected to the event. If you are on social media, use event-specific hashtags to engage with other attendees. And do not forget about the tools included in event apps. Review the attendee list for familiar names, institutions, and organizations. If there is someone whose work you admire, reach out in the app and/or attend their session and introduce yourself. While it can be intimidating to enter a large reception room by yourself, remember that most other attendees are alone too and would welcome a smile and introduction. Make a goal of meeting two new people each day of an event and build up from there. Be open to saying yes to an invitation to chat or join a dinner group.

Add to the conversation

There is nothing wrong with “lurking” in social media or conference apps. We are researchers, after all. But engaging with other attendees provides more opportunities for building your network. Go beyond a virtual “like” by commenting on posts. Share a tip, compliment someone’s work and tag them, or pose a question to the community. The IR/E community is generous, and you might be surprised by the ideas and connections you access when folks respond to a request for ideas and assistance. These quick connections often move to lengthier email conversations or even video calls where connections are strengthened. And ideas that garner a lot of conversation can lead to invitations to co-present or co-author, or requests to join organizational committees, which can be career expanding as well as network enhancing.

Networking has big benefits

Relationships are key to successful work in IR/E, both institutionally and in the wider postsecondary education community. The work is meaningful, and the work can also be exhausting at times. Self-care is crucial and having a strong network of professionals who understand the demands and rewards of the work provides opportunities for sharing and learning, and, honestly, checking in to see if you are on the right track. Formal learning opportunities, such as graduate school and workshops are great for IR/E professional development. Informal learning is also crucial. Hearing from others who have conducted similar work to hear their advice is helpful. Having trusted colleagues with whom you can discuss ideas strengthens your ability to grow and succeed.

Find the right method(s) for you

Social media is in transition, so using this networking method might not be appealing right now. In addition, everyone has different levels of comfort engaging. It is important for everyone to find the methods that work best for them. If you think you must be an extrovert to network well, think again. Neither of the experts I spoke to identify as such. They value the engagement and learning inherent in professional networking, and they find ways to engage that feel right to them. Postsecondary education is filled with professional associations and organizations focused on building connections. Engage with one or more and investigate their tools for networking. The time and effort you intentionally invest up front will pay off. One connection will lead to another and, before you know it, networking will become second nature and folks will be seeking you out.

Gina Johnson, PhD

Principal & Cofounder, Data EmpowerED Consulting