The biggest early career myth: “I don’t need a network yet.”
Left to right: Jude McLoughlin, Graduate Sustainability Engineer, Lucy McCoy, Graduate Structural Engineer
“Networking skills are just for senior staff. Only those in leadership need to network.” is a sentiment shared by many early careers individuals. Sometimes they’re not given the opportunity to attend industry events, or other times they’re too nervous to put themselves forward. While there are many reasons why this might be the case, at Cundall it could not be further from the truth. The early careers of today are the leadership of tomorrow.
Jude McLoughlin, Graduate Sustainability Engineer, has been a part of Edinburgh’s NextGen group, our next generation initiative, since its formation. Prior to this, Jude had never attended a networking event before, and like many was nervous. Despite these nerves, last summer he attended his first event alongside three of his colleagues, and the floodgates opened:
“Everyone is nervous to attend this first event – that's only natural! However, had I not attended that event, I’d never had started building the connections I have now.”
Quickly, he found his industry circle of contacts expanding, and opportunities to attend further events began to come in. With each event, he found that not only was he meeting individuals and practicing his networking skills, but he was learning more about their companies. Suddenly, he had direct contacts he was confident to reach out to in different scenarios, powered by his confidence having met this people face-to-face.
“It’s much easier to attend with someone else from your company or with an industry friend. Having someone else there makes it feel less daunting when you’re faced with a room full of strangers. Remember that everyone is there for the same reason so will feel the same way. They’ll be glad you’ve come to talk to them!”
Having joined her office NextGen group when she began her role as a Graduate Structural Engineer in Edinburgh, Lucy McCoy echoed a similar sentiment to Jude. Her first event, a games night hosted by our local early careers professionals, was only a week after her first day. While some may have felt out of their depth, Lucy seized the opportunity to watch how others networked and build the beginnings of her network.
“The skills you gain through networking are endless. I not only had the chance to talk with others in the industry and expand my technical knowledge by hearing about the exciting projects they’re working on, but I also learned a lot simply by observing how my colleagues' network. It’s not a natural skill for most people but seeing how others communicate with clients and peers was incredibly valuable and helped me develop my own networking style.”
Something she hadn’t expected when she began her journey was just how much fun she’d have at events. Lucy has now attended multiple gatherings across the sector and has reached a stage where she has her own client base to invite along. Recently, she even felt confident enough to help host a bowling night with other NextGen members. Getting involved in networking from her very first week not only helped her build new skills, but it also boosted her confidence.
“Talk to everyone! You’ll be surprised how many people you think aren’t in your industry end up being a great relationship to have. Connect with them on LinkedIn, follow up with them after the event. Every relationship you create is beneficial.” is her advice to everyone at the beginning of their career.”
Your early career is when your leadership network is built – or lost. Don’t wait to build the network you’ll need.
