Networking is the process of intentionally building relationships that can offer mutual benefit — typically through collaboration, knowledge-sharing, or professional support. In a medical context, having an effective network often means connecting with others who share similar interests, values, or goals. This might include fellow doctors, researchers, healthcare leaders, or professionals in aligned fields. Purposeful networking is key: building contacts thoughtfully with people whose work or passions resonate with yours makes the connections more meaningful and productive.
Doctors in training often feel they don’t need to network, since their access to the next role is via an online recruitment process. Therefore, they often assume that networking isn’t particularly relevant to their careers. Starting with UCAS applications then moving to UK Foundation Programme and specialty training posts, the early stages are largely navigated through structured, centralised recruitment systems. These processes can feel rigidly meritocratic and largely impersonal.
As a result, newly qualified doctors may not fully appreciate the value of networking. Although, they will have networked when they were at the stage of thinking about going for a medical degree. Some applicants will have had relatives in the profession and all will have had work experience, where they will have met and networked to explore whether medicine is for them.
Why network?
As doctors progress in their careers and the pathways become less formal and more competitive, particularly for leadership roles, fellowships, or portfolio careers, professional relationships and word-of-mouth opportunities begin to play a far greater role. At that point, those who have cultivated a strong network often find they have more options, better insight and access to opportunities that never make it to open advertisement.
Why networking can be important for:
Medical job applications
Job opportunities, particularly for senior medical positions, often will be shared by word-of-mouth, as well as by being advertised online. This word-of-mouth sharing, even if it’s preliminary/speculative, often occurs long in advance of the job being officially listed, giving well-networked candidates a headstart for preparation.
In many fields beyond medicine, companies often post job openings even when they’ve already selected an internal or known external candidate, due to policy or formality. As a result, outside applicants unknowingly spend time applying for positions that are effectively filled. Networking helps you become the person who gets the job before it’s ever publicly posted.
It is also sometimes the case that a job is created with a specific person in mind. It often happens in start-ups and digital health roles – they could offer you the role, if you have networked and made a really good impression on the people that have the power to recruit in the organisation.
Medical extracurricular stuff (e.g. research)
If you are looking for the possibility to perhaps widen your work portfolio, then you’ll find that thousands of opportunities are initiated, or spread, by word of mouth per year.
For example, it might be through networking that you hear about a great collaborative opportunity to carry out some interesting research or an audit.
Non-medical work
Networking is particularly important for those working as a doctor in the world outside the NHS, or those who are freelancing; for example, if you are a self-employed consultant, or a medical writer. If you are in this situation, your workload is not guaranteed. In fact, the process of getting any work at all is often non-meritocratic and is hugely influenced by networking.
Therefore, it’s essential that you keep your network alive, so that you have the best chance of hearing about possible opportunities.
If the idea of networking makes you cringe, try reframing it as simply expanding your professional circle. It can make the process feel more approachable and authentic.
Objectives to hold in mind:
- Remember it’s important to give as well as receive to your network. Networking is a two-way street and it is best if you try to nurture a long-term relationship. In the short-term, it might be someone else you are helping, however by positively engaging with others, you are likely to increase the chance of opportunities coming your way. For instance, if you’re a medical student or junior doctor interested in a specialty like cardiology, look for ways to offer support—such as helping with research, assisting at events, or sharing useful resources. These small, genuine contributions can help you build trust and stay on others’ radars. Over time, those you’ve helped may be the ones who connect you to valuable opportunities.
- In medicine, networking isn’t about self-promotion or pushing your agenda, it’s about building genuine professional relationships. If you approach a consultant or senior colleague as though you’re “selling” yourself i.e. constantly talking about your achievements or asking for favours, you risk coming across as insincere or transactional. Instead, focus on showing curiosity, asking thoughtful questions and finding shared interests. This creates a more authentic connection, which is far more valuable in the long run.
- In a medical context, your first goal in networking isn’t to ask for a favour, it’s simply to get to know the person. For instance, if you’re interested in a particular specialty, you might start by asking a registrar or consultant about their career path, or how they got into the field. A genuine conversation like this can help you build rapport and open the door to future opportunities, without making the interaction feel transactional.
Keeping your network alive
1. Stay in touch
Even when you don’t want anything, it’s good to reach out occasionally just to say hello, share an article, or comment on something someone in your network has done. It doesn’t have to be constant, but a quick message now and then helps keep the relationship warm.
2. Share value
Offer insights, opportunities, or helpful resources when you can. Networking is a two-way street and people remember those who support them without expecting something in return.
3. Celebrate milestones
Congratulate people on promotions, publications, awards, or new roles. A small gesture like this can strengthen the relationship and shows you’re paying attention.
4. Be present where they are
Join relevant LinkedIn groups, online forums, or attend conferences, seminars, or webinars. Engaging with shared spaces helps maintain visibility and relevance in your network.
5. Reconnect intentionally
If a relationship has gone quiet, don’t hesitate to reinitiate it. A message along the lines of “I was thinking about our conversation on [topic], how have things been going?” can be a great re-entry point.
6. Maintain curiosity
Ask questions, be genuinely interested in what others are doing, and follow up on previous discussions. This deepens the relationship over time.
7. Use tools to help you remember
Simple reminders in your calendar, or even a spreadsheet can help you keep track of contacts, conversations and when you last reached out — especially useful when your network grows. This is especially important if you are looking for work outside the NHS.
8. Meet in-person, or virtually
Whenever possible, if you’ve already established a relationship with someone, meet for coffee, a walk, or a short call. Face-to-face (or screen-to-screen) contact builds much stronger connections than emails alone.
How to network
Here are some steps you can take to advance your network:
Get a mentor
A mentor can be a valuable support in developing your professional network within medicine. They may introduce you to key people in their field, recommend relevant conferences or specialty groups. They may help you prepare for conversations by refining how you present your goals/ interests. Mentors can also offer insight from their own experiences. In some cases, they can advocate for you, by recommending you for research and audits. Their guidance can make networking feel more approachable and purposeful.
Ask for advice from someone you don’t normally work with
Reaching out to someone outside your usual team, whether from a different specialty, department, or hospital, can be a simple yet effective way to expand your network. By asking for advice on a topic they have experience in, you’re showing genuine interest and respect for their expertise. This can naturally open the door to ongoing professional dialogue. In medicine, where many research opportunities arise through word-of-mouth and informal recommendations, these kinds of cross-disciplinary connections can broaden your perspective. They can potentially lead to new opportunities, or ideas for alternative careers.
Volunteer to work in project outside your team
Volunteering for projects outside your immediate team can expand your network in medicine, though time constraints can make this difficult. To manage, consider taking on small, manageable tasks, like assisting with a research audit or joining a multidisciplinary project, that align with your career interests. Be clear about your availability and prioritise opportunities that fit your schedule. This way, you can build valuable connections without overcommitting yourself.
Offer to help others
As a junior doctor, you notice a senior registrar juggling multiple tasks. Offering to handle routine tasks, like arranging investigations, shows initiative and teamwork. This can lead to the registrar involving you in interesting cases, or introducing you to valuable contacts, helping expand your network.
Speak at conferences
Speaking at medical conferences, if you get the chance, allows you to share your expertise and engage with others in your field. It’s an opportunity to build credibility, connect with potential collaborators. It’s also the chance to expand your network by interacting with professionals who share your interests and goals.
Maintain a LinkedIn profile (see the LinkedIn section below)
At a networking event
At an in-person networking event, where there is the chance is to mingle within a group, think about how you want to present yourself. It’s good to think of an elevator pitch where you tell them what you do, what your skills are and what you are passionate about.
An example of an elevator pitch could be:
“Hi, my name is Dr. Emily Taylor, currently a junior doctor in cardiology at St. Thomas’ Hospital in London. I’ve developed a strong interest in cardiovascular research, particularly in heart failure and patient rehabilitation. I’d love to hear more about your experience in the field and any insights you might have on potential opportunities for further development in this area.”
Further tips:
Go over and introduce yourself to someone that is on their own
They will be delighted to have some company. You’ll also be able to get to know them on a one-to-one basis, which is easier than if they are in a group.
Actively listen to the needs of others.
For example, at a medical conference, you speak with a consultant who mentions struggling to find time for a research project. Instead of offering solutions right away, you actively listen and ask, “What parts of the project are most challenging?” or “Is there any way I could assist with the research?” By focusing on their needs and offering help, you show genuine interest and create the foundation for future collaboration.
Be sure to let people know how you would like them to help you
It may sound obvious, but sometimes people are so focused on the task at hand, that they forget to do this. For instance, at a medical networking event, you’re speaking with a senior consultant about your interest in cardiology. After discussing your background and career goals, you clearly express, “I’d really appreciate any advice you might have on how to get involved in cardiology research or any contacts in the field who might be looking for research assistants. I’m eager to gain experience and learn more.” By directly stating how they can help, you make it easier for the consultant to provide the support or connections you need.
Keep your network current.
Actively engage with it. If you haven’t been in contact with someone for a year or two, then the relationship is probably dormant at best. [See the section above on keeping your network alive]. Reaching out after a period of time, say after 18 months, isn’t unreasonable, but make sure your approach is respectful and thoughtful. An example email could look like: “Hi [Name], I wanted to check in and thank you again for the opportunity to speak to you/interview with [Organisation] last year. Since then, I’ve continued to build my experience in [relevant area], and I’d love to stay in touch and hear about any upcoming opportunities or advice you might have for someone looking to further develop in this field.” If there’s no response after multiple attempts, it’s a good idea to let go and focus your energy elsewhere. Networking should be a reciprocal, evolving process, not a one-sided effort.
7 tips on how to look good on LinkedIn
LinkedIn is different to other social media platforms, in that its main purpose is helping you to build up your professional network. Below I have written seven tips about how you can use this site.
Before going into the tips, it’s worth exploring what LinkedIn is like as a platform: LinkedIn can feel like a different world compared to other social media platforms. The tone is often highly polished, think corporate buzzwords, carefully curated positivity and a steady stream of humblebrags (“I’m honoured to be leading a pre-meeting brainstorm next week…”). For doctors new to the platform, this can feel a bit awkward or even cringeworthy at times.
However, it’s worth remembering that LinkedIn is a professional space, and part of using it effectively means learning how to present yourself in a way that’s both authentic and appropriately positive. That might mean putting a slightly shinier spin on your achievements than you would in day-to-day conversation. It’s not about being fake, it’s about understanding the tone of the platform and learning how to speak its language.
Over time, you’ll find your own voice and style that fits within LinkedIn’s norms while still feeling true to who you are. And yes, it’s okay to roll your eyes at the buzzwords now and then, most of us do!
Finally, before I go through the tips, it’s also worth thinking about the GMC guidelines, Using social media as a medical professional. These outline the importance of maintaining professionalism online, including being respectful, protecting patient confidentiality and avoiding content that could undermine public trust in the profession.
Tip 1: Complete your profile in one go
If you are new to LinkedIn. it’s best to complete the main part of your profile in one go, i.e. the headline, the about section, your career history and your qualifications. A half-filled in profile doesn’t look very good. Set aside some time. Make sure you use a professional photograph. Fill in each section as it comes up. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect, or how you would exactly like it first time. It’s something you can come back to, but you’ll want to fill in the essentials.
Tip 2: Who to link in with
Don’t limit your LinkedIn connections to just colleagues and people you already know. It’s perfectly appropriate, and often valuable, to connect with others in your professional area, even if you haven’t met them in person. You can also reach out to people in different fields if their work aligns with your interests or career goals. When sending a connection request to someone you don’t know, it’s a good idea to include a short message introducing yourself and explaining why you’d like to connect. It’s not required, but a brief note helps make the connection more personal and meaningful.
An example of a quick introductory note could be:
Initial connection request:
Hi [Name],
I’m currently exploring opportunities at [Company Name] and noticed we have [mention common ground — e.g. both studied at [University], share an interest in [field], or have a mutual connection]. I’d really value the chance to connect with you here on LinkedIn.
Follow-up message after they accept:
Hi [Name],
Thanks for connecting. I’m very interested in learning more about the [X] sector, and I wondered if you might have a few minutes for a brief chat at some point. I’d love to hear about your experience at [Company Name] and get your perspective.
By way of background, I’m a junior doctor with experience in [brief summary — e.g. public health, digital health, academic research], and I’m keen to understand how that might translate into a role in this field.
Tip 3: Linking in with people that have studied at the same place
You can link in with people that have studied at the same university as you. There is a filter for this and it’s a way to link in with alumni who are in the area in which you want to work. You can send a message, something like “Hi, I noticed you are an alumni of X medical school and are also working in a field that I’m interested in going into. Do you mind if I link in with you?”
Tip 4: Build up the number of people you’re linked to
Building your LinkedIn network can increase the visibility of your profile. This is especially the case when you’re looking for work, whether in a permanent role or freelance capacity. The more connections you have on LinkedIn, the more profiles you can access. LinkedIn allows you to view people up to three degrees away: your direct connections (1st-degree), their connections (2nd-degree), and the connections of those people (3rd-degree). Expanding your network therefore increases your visibility and reach across the platform. In addition to this, recruiters and headhunters often use LinkedIn to search for candidates in specific fields. That said, it’s not just about connecting with as many people as possible. The quality and relevance of your connections matter more. Aim to build a network that reflects:
- your career interests
- your colleagues
- the people working in roles you aspire to/ professionals in organisations you admire.
This helps ensure you’re more visible to the right people and increases your chances of being found for roles that genuinely suit your goals.
Tip 5: Exploring new career paths
LinkedIn can be a useful tool for exploring career paths, especially those outside of medicine, but it’s not always obvious where to start. A good first step is to search for organisations you’re curious about and look at the profiles of people who work there. Try searching for terms like “medical advisor,” “health technology,” or “clinical research” to see where others with a medical background have gone. Look at their career history: Did they move straight into that role from clinical work? Did they take a course or gain experience in a different sector first? This can give insight into what skills are valued, how people have used their medical training in other industries, and what potential next steps might look like.
Tip 6: The headline and the ‘about’ section.
Underneath your name, there’ll be a short statement, also known as the headline. You’ll also have an ‘about’ section near the top. As these two areas are some of the first bits that anyone looking at your profile will see, then it’s important to pay some attention to them. Below I give more detail about these two sections.
The headline section of LinkedIn
The headline should be short and should clearly indicate your professional status and what you’re looking for. You can use key words that you think recruiter might use so that you will come up when they are searching for candidates.
Your ‘about’ section
Key words (such as a description of your skills) are important in the ‘about’ section. You can have a look at several job descriptions for roles you are going for and use the words that typically come up, so that recruiters can find you.
Your ‘about’ section doesn’t have to be too long, but it does need to give a good account of what you have to offer and what you’re looking for.
Tip 7: Include bullet points in the work experience section.
Just like in the CV, bullet points make each section much more quickly scannable. If your CV and LinkedIn work experience sections are identical, then that’s good. That’s ideal, as then there will be no discrepancies when a potential employer looks at your profile.
Final thoughts on building your network on LinkedIn
Whether you’re staying in medicine or exploring alternative career paths, LinkedIn can be a powerful tool to help you connect with others, discover opportunities, and raise your professional visibility. Remember, networking isn’t just about who you know, it’s about who knows you and what you bring to the table.
Start by building a relevant network of people working in areas you’re interested in. Don’t hesitate to connect with those you haven’t met in person, especially if their career path or work aligns with your interests. And when you do reach out, take a moment to personalise your message. A short note can go a long way in making a meaningful connection.
Networking takes time and consistency, but a few small steps now, like updating your profile, connecting with peers, or reaching out to someone for advice, can open doors down the line.
How I can support you with your networking
If you’re unsure where to start with career networking, or just need a bit of motivation, you’re not alone. I can guide you through how to make the most of LinkedIn, drawing on years of experience using the platform. This will help you present yourself more confidently online. We can also reframe how you think about networking—seeing it less as a chore and more as simply widening your professional circle.
If you’d like support with updating your profile, making connections, or just figuring out your next steps, do get in touch. You can email me at [email protected] or call 07766 018081. And feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn—I’d love to hear from you.