Success — for both you and your company — often comes down to one thing: your network.
And here’s the truth: only you can build, nurture, and make use of it.

Networking isn’t about collecting business cards or polite small talk.
It’s about creating potential — by provoking coincidences, thinking creatively, and daring to connect ideas, people, and possibilities.

Challenge yourself to change your approach:
Instead of asking “How are you?”, try something that opens up the conversation and gives insight into what drives the person in front of you. For example:
👉 “What brought you to this event?”
👉 “What part of the presentation resonated most with you?”
👉 “What are you currently most curious or excited about?”

People connect with your energy, not your title. Be curious. Be authentic.


🧠 Mindset
 • Be confident, warm, and friendly — others are likely just as uneasy as you.
 • Go out of your comfort zone — this is work, not hiding behind familiar faces.
 • Bring your personality — curiosity, positivity, and genuine interest make you memorable.


🧭 Preparation
 • Check the guest list (if available) — identify who you’d like to meet and possible links.
 • Know your key messages — what do you want to share or learn? Be ready for the unexpected.
 • Have a short, passionate “elevator pitch” (20–30 sec).
 • Appearance matters — dress as you, with confidence. When you feel comfortable, you radiate it.


☕ At the Event
• Work the room — don’t cluster with colleagues.
• Ask questions that spark real dialogue. Connect people if you see overlaps

• Focus on what you can give to others, and not primarily on what you might gain yourself.

• Listen actively — focus on quality over quantity.

 •  Be generous with your contacts. Introduce people to each other- even people you just met.
 • Be memorable — in a positive, authentic way.
 • Exit gracefully — “Good luck, let me know how it goes!”
 • And yes — drink coffee and dive on people in the coffee queue! ☕😉


🔄 Post Event
 • Follow up within 2 days — email or LinkedIn while energy is still fresh.
 • Personalize your message — mention something from your conversation.
 • Track and tag your contacts — think long-term, not one-off.
 • Keep connections alive — small gestures go a long way.

Networking can be trained like a muscle — with practice, purpose, and presence.
By putting yourself out there, sharing what excites you, and staying curious, you increase your chances of encountering the kind of “luck” 🍀that transforms opportunities into impact.

Pernilla Isberg | Director, AstraZeneca BioVentureHub

Pernilla Isberg is a pharmacist with +30 years of experience from working within AstraZeneca with marketing, clinical trials and cross functional project management. Since 2018 Pernilla is Director at AZ BioVentureHub – A unique innovation platform located within AstraZeneca’s Gothenburg R&D site in Sweden, supporting emerging companies to grow. Access to AstraZeneca’s scientific expertise and facilities, collaboration opportunities, and a vibrant community. The focus is on non-competitive synergies and shared challenges we can solve together across Data & AI, DeepTech, SustainTech, and Pharma (new modalities and drug delivery technologies).