Induction Workshop: Academic Networking: A Neuroinclusive Approach

This session is part of the CHASE induction series and is aimed at those who become CHASE funded in 2025.

Starting your PhD can feel daunting, especially when it comes to building professional relationships and attending networking events.

This workshop takes a fresh, neuroinclusive approach to academic networking by recognising that we all have different communication styles and social preferences.

Led by Dr Catherine Pope, an experienced trainer with lived experience as a neurodivergent researcher, this session will help you develop confidence and practical strategies for academic networking throughout your PhD.

What you'll learn:

• How academic networking differs from other types of professional networking.

• Why networking doesn't require you to be extroverted or a "natural" at small talk.

• Practical strategies for before, during, and after networking events.

• How to manage energy and find approaches that work for your communication style.

• Alternative networking methods beyond traditional events.

• Specific preparation techniques for upcoming networking opportunities.

This workshop welcomes everyone, regardless of neurotype. You can participate in any way that feels comfortable - you're welcome to listen, contribute through the chatbot, or engage verbally.

Optional practice session: Stay for an additional 30 minutes to try out networking techniques in a supportive, low-pressure environment.

By the end of this workshop, you'll be able to:

• Identify networking approaches that align with your personal strengths and preferences.

• Prepare effectively for networking events to reduce anxiety and increase success.

• Use practical scripts and strategies during conversations.

• Recognise the unique advantages you bring to academic

This training is open to:

• CHASE funded doctoral researchers,
• Arts and Humanities PGRs at CHASE member institutions,
• Staff at CHASE partner organisations, [note: non exhaustive list]
• Arts and Humanities PGRs (via the AHRC mailing list)

By registering for CHASE training events, you are requesting a place on the training programme or selected sessions that form part of the programme.

You will receive confirmation of your place via email from the booking platform. Please scroll down to the “additional information” section for further details of how to attend, any necessary preparation prior to the training, and any other key information.

If you are allocated a place and can no longer attend please cancel your place via Eventbrite or email training@chase.ac.uk.CHASE training is free to attend and events are often oversubscribed with a waiting list. Failure to notify us of non-attendance in good time (ideally 5 days before the training event) means it becomes more difficult to reallocate your place. Repeated failure to notify us of non-attendance may mean that your access to future training is limited.