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EFFECTIVE NETWORKING
Highlights from 2025 NSBE Professional Development Conference
Paul Faronbi
September 01, 2025
Check out the last newsletter: Empowering Leadership
Happy Labor Day! I thought about making a newsletter about how Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s recent engagement related to leadership, but that was a stretch even for me, so you’ll have to settle for a recap of my time in New Orleans from the weekend and talking about networking.
EFFECTIVE NETWORKING
One more week until new podcast episodes are back… In the meantime how about a conference recap?
A time was had while in New Orleans last week and I got the flex my networking muscles
Not that they needed anymore flexing but it was great connecting and reconnecting with people.
It was in a new city for me and made me think of things that worked well for me when networking.
The first thing is simple but shouldn’t be overlooked… Resolve that you are actually going to network. Mentally preparing yourself for networking or anything for that matter can’t be overlooked especially if you’re more introverted leaning.
Second thing is to be curious about the other person. A conference is a perfect opportunity to approach strangers especially on the first day because everyone is just waiting for someone to make a move and once you do it gets easier.
What happens if they don’t want to talk or you fumble your words? Keep it moving and don’t sweat it.
I know it’s easier said than done, but the key to being an effective networker is to GET OVER YOURSELF…
Sorry for yelling, but staying in your head is what has kept you from a lot of opportunities. If you’re at a conference or event, be ready to network, be curious but the third tip is the most important.
Third thing is to LISTEN.
It’s simple but can’t be overstated how impactful listening is. But make sure you’re listening to understand and not just respond! Ask clarifying questions and don’t be afraid to ask someone to repeat themselves if you didn’t catch what they said. We’ve all been there when we clearly know we weren’t heard by the reaction we got from a so called listener. Push past the awkwardness and go for the connection.
There’s a start and this week instead of highlighting a podcast episode, check out the video recap from the conference. Night one ended with a dance party, day 2 was sessions and networking, day 3 was more sessions and my talk! Look out for my speaker recap on LinkedIn and IG this week as well!
TL:DR?
3 Keys to Effective Networking: Mentally prepare for it, be curious, and listen! Check out the recap video from the conference by clicking the YouTube video below!
CHECK OUT RECENT EPISODES OF INCREDIPAUL LEADERSHIP
Reminder new episodes come back next Monday, September 8 and come out every Monday at 6am Central Time. Check it out by going to incredipaul.org/podcast or stream on the following platforms: YouTube, Apple, Spotify, Google, Amazon and More.
EP 128: Empowering the Next Generation of STEM w/ Ashley Jeter
EP 129: Aligning Personal and Professional Aspirations
EP 130: Merging Science & Entertainment w/ HipHop MD
EP 131: Mastering the Art of Networking
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LEADERSHIP QUOTE
“Self-discipline moves you from good intentions to good actions”
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