{"organism":"Page","children":[{"organism":"Container.Raw","children":[{"organism":"Metadata","model":{"title":"The Dos and Don’ts of Professional Networking","text":"Professional networking can be a powerful tool for advancing your career. Learn the dos and don'ts of effective networking to make the most of every opportunity.","links":[{"name":"The Dos and Don’ts of Professional Networking","value":"https://www.shell.pl/o-shell/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking.html"}],"image":{"src":"https://www.shell.pl/about-us/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking/_jcr_content/root/metadata.shellimg.jpeg/1748588619322/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking.jpeg","alt":"Two individuals are seated at a round table in an office setting. They are engaged in a discussion while looking at a laptop screen. Behind them, there is a large monitor displaying multiple windows with code and data visualizations. 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It goes way beyond just exchanging business cards: it’s about forming mutually beneficial relationships that offer support, advice, and opportunities.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n","image":{"src":"https://www.shell.pl/about-us/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking/_jcr_content/root/main/section/page_header.shellimg.jpeg/1748588612260/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking.jpeg","alt":"Two individuals are seated at a round table in an office setting. They are engaged in a discussion while looking at a laptop screen. Behind them, there is a large monitor displaying multiple windows with code and data visualizations. The background features glass walls with horizontal stripes.","width":3831,"height":957}},"id":"/content/shell/countries/poland/pl_pl/about-us/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking/jcr_content/root/main/section/page_header"},{"organism":"PromoSimple.Text","color":"inherited","id":"/content/shell/countries/poland/pl_pl/about-us/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking/jcr_content/root/main/section/text","model":{"text":"\u003Cp\u003EAt Shell Poland, networking is deeply embedded in our organizational culture. The \u003Cb\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https://www.careersinpoland.com/article/work/work-for-supply-chain-contract-and-procurement-shell\"\u003EKrakow Supply Chain Hub\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/b\u003E alone has over 500 professionals connecting daily to drive innovations like AI-powered procurement and sustainable energy solutions.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis guide explores actionable tips for building meaningful professional relationships while avoiding common networking pitfalls. You’ll also learn how to leverage Shell Poland’s inclusive corporate culture to advance your professional growth.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003EWhat is professional networking?\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EProfessional networking involves building mutually beneficial relationships with professionals in your industry. At its core, it’s about creating value for both parties, whether through sharing expertise, collaborating on projects, or providing mentorship.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EOur networking approach isn’t limited to external events, though. Internal platforms like Women’s Network at Shell (WN@S) and enABLE Network for employees with disabilities, demonstrate how structured communities help foster inclusivity and professional growth.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese networks enable our employees to connect across geographical and functional boundaries, aligning with Shell’s commitment to diversity as a business imperative and belief that we are one team.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003EProfessional networking benefits\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESome of the key benefits of professional networking include:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003ECareer Acceleration: \u003C/b\u003EActive participation in industry conferences and contributing insights on platforms like LinkedIn can attract recruiter attention and invitations to exclusive opportunities.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EMentorship and Knowledge Sharing: \u003C/b\u003ENetworking connects early-career professionals with industry veterans who offer guidance on technical competencies and leadership.\u003Cb\u003E\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EIncreased Confidence: \u003C/b\u003ENetworking can boost your self-confidence by providing opportunities to engage with professionals, participate in events, and receive recognition for your achievements.\u003Cb\u003E\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003EDos of professional networking\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EResearch before attending events\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFor starters, you should prioritize events that align with your career goals. It’s important to research the event’s agenda, participants, and strategic priorities (e.g., energy transition, Powering Progress strategy). You can use tools like LinkedIn to identify key speakers or potential contacts.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EHave a clear goal in mind\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhether you’re seeking mentorship or project collaboration, your objectives need to be well-defined. For example, Shell’s Supply Chain professionals often aim to connect with cross-functional teams to innovate in inventory management.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EBe authentic and genuine\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EShell values authenticity in its hiring process. After all, people are more likely to connect with someone genuine. So, be yourself, and show a real interest in others. This will help you build trust and long-lasting relationships.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EPrepare an elevator pitch\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAnother do of professional networking is preparing a concise and compelling introduction that highlights your experiences and career aspirations.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EExample: \u003C/b\u003E“\u003Ci\u003EAs a recent environmental science graduate, I’m passionate about renewable energy solutions. I’m exploring job openings where I can contribute to Shell’s decarbonization targets while developing expertise in circular economy models.”\u003C/i\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EParticipate actively\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEngage in Q&A sessions, volunteer for panel discussions, or join Shell’s employee resource groups (ERGs). At Shell, we have more than 126 ERGs across over 30 countries and regions.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EMaintain professional relationships over time\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAfter connecting with industry professionals, you may want to conduct quarterly check-ins with them via email or LinkedIn. You can share relevant articles or congratulate them on promotions to sustain engagement without overwhelming them.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EUse social media wisely\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIt’s also important to optimize your social media, LinkedIn in particular, for discoverability and online professional networking:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EHeadline: \u003C/b\u003EAn example would be “Supply Chain Graduate | Passionate About Sustainable Energy Solutions.”\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EAbout Section: \u003C/b\u003EThis is where you highlight internships, projects, and values\u003Cb\u003E\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EActivity: \u003C/b\u003EEngage and comment on posts that are relevant to your industry.\u003Cb\u003E\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003EDon’ts of professional networking\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EAvoid being overly aggressive\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhile enthusiasm is valuable, bombarding your professional contacts with constant requests can alienate them. Instead, you should focus on building rapport through shared interests.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EOnly talking about yourself\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EBalancing self-promotion with curiosity is crucial. Talking only about yourself can make you come across as self-absorbed. So, take the time to ask questions about others’ roles (e.g., How did you transition into offshore wind projects at Shell?).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003ENot following through on promises\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you commit to sharing a resource or making an introduction, always follow through. Reliability is key when it comes to building and maintaining professional relationships, especially in Shell’s culture where teams manage billion-dollar contracts that require strict accountability.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EBurning bridges\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEven if a role isn’t a good fit for you or if an interaction isn’t immediately fruitful, you should remain courteous. You never know when you might cross paths with someone again. It’s worth noting that Shell’s Krakow Hub often rehires alumni due to its emphasis on long-term relationships.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EUsing networking solely for personal gain\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYou should approach networking interactions with a give-first mentality. The whole concept of networking revolves around reciprocity, after all. So, if possible, share job leads or introduce contacts to mutual connections to build goodwill.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EDo not overlook peers\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EJunior colleagues may become future leaders, so don’t overlook your peers just because they’re at the same career stage as you are. They can offer valuable support and collaboration opportunities.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ctable cellpadding=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" border=\"1\"\u003E\n\u003Ctbody\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Cth scope=\"col\"\u003E\u003Cb\u003ENetworking Strategy\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/th\u003E\n\u003Cth scope=\"col\"\u003E\u003Cb\u003EAdvantages\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/th\u003E\n\u003Cth scope=\"col\"\u003EDisadvantages\u003C/th\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EAttending Events\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd\u003EFace-to-face interaction, immediate connection, and access to a wide range of professionals\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd\u003ECan be time-consuming, may require travel, and there’s a potential for superficial interactions\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003ESocial Media\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd\u003EWide reach, high convenience, and the ability to share content and engage in discussions.\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd\u003ECan be impersonal, requires consistent effort, and exposure to misinformation.\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\u003Ctr\u003E\u003Ctd\u003EMentorship\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd\u003EGuidance from experienced professionals, career advice, and increased confidence.\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003Ctd\u003ERequires finding a suitable mentor, may take time to develop a strong relationship, and may encounter conflicting advice.\u003C/td\u003E\n\u003C/tr\u003E\u003C/tbody\u003E\u003C/table\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003EMaking meaningful connections at Shell\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EShell Poland prioritizes \u003Cb\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https://www.shell.pl/o-shell/careers/about-careers-at-shell.html#values-led-culture\"\u003Ediversity and inclusion\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/b\u003E\u003Cspan\u003Eas the foundation of its networking ethos. Initiatives like the company’s ERGs, which include groups for women, STEM enthusiasts, and more, create safe spaces for underrepresented talent to connect and advocate for systematic change.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003ESeizing opportunities: Next steps in your journey\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EProfessional networking is a lifelong practice that evolves with your career. Following the dos and don’ts highlighted in this guide will help you build a strong professional network that opens doors to new opportunities.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EReady to elevate your career through professional networking? Join Shell's dynamic community to connect with industry leaders, participate in virtual networking events, and discover exciting career opportunities.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https://www.shell.pl/o-shell/careers.html\"\u003EExplore opportunities at Shell\u003C/a\u003E \u003C/b\u003Etoday.\u003C/p\u003E\n"}}],"id":"/content/shell/countries/poland/pl_pl/about-us/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking/jcr_content/root/main/section","model":{}},{"organism":"Container.Section","color":"brand1-subtle","children":[{"organism":"PromoCard","color":"brand1","colspan":6,"id":"/content/shell/countries/poland/pl_pl/about-us/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking/jcr_content/root/main/section_1394115168_c/promo_copy_208858738","model":{"title":"Shell Graduate Programme","text":"\u003Cp\u003EBe part of a graduate programme where you’ll be supported to make an impact right from the start.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\r\n\r\n","links":[{"name":"Shell Graduate Programme","value":"https://www.shell.pl/o-shell/careers/shell-business-operations/shell-graduate-programme.html"}],"image":{"src":"https://www.shell.pl/about-us/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking/_jcr_content/root/main/section_1394115168_c/promo_copy_208858738.shellimg.png/1726484751321/woman-doing-online-shopping-using-her-tablet.png","alt":"Shell Graduate Programme","width":1080,"height":608}}},{"organism":"PromoCard","color":"brand1","colspan":6,"id":"/content/shell/countries/poland/pl_pl/about-us/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking/jcr_content/root/main/section_1394115168_c/promo_copy_208858738_1438439910","model":{"title":"Summer Internship Programme in Shell Krakow","text":"\u003Cp\u003EGrow your skills by taking part in real business challenges, and learning from supportive leaders, mentors and colleagues.\u003Cbr\u003E\r\n\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\r\n\r\n","links":[{"name":"Summer Internship Programme in Shell Krakow","value":"https://www.shell.pl/o-shell/careers/shell-business-operations/summer-internship-in-shell-krakow.html"}],"image":{"src":"https://www.shell.pl/about-us/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking/_jcr_content/root/main/section_1394115168_c/promo_copy_208858738_1438439910.shellimg.jpeg/1726484757559/internship-1.jpeg","alt":"Three smiling employees sitting in room full of green plants and talking with each other.","width":3840,"height":2160}}},{"organism":"Container.XF","id":"/content/shell/countries/poland/pl_pl/about-us/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking/jcr_content/root/main/section_1394115168_c/experience_fragment_","model":{}}],"id":"/content/shell/countries/poland/pl_pl/about-us/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking/jcr_content/root/main/section_1394115168_c","model":{"title":"You may also be interested in"}}],"id":"/content/shell/countries/poland/pl_pl/about-us/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking/jcr_content/root/main","model":{}},{"organism":"Container.Footer","children":[{"organism":"Breadcrumb.Large","model":{"links":[{"name":"Strona główna","value":"https://www.shell.pl/"},{"name":"O Shell","value":"https://www.shell.pl/o-shell.html"},{"name":"Careers at Shell","value":"https://www.shell.pl/o-shell/careers.html"},{"name":"Candidate Resource Centre","value":"https://www.shell.pl/o-shell/careers/candidate-resource-centre.html"},{"name":"The Dos and Don’ts of Professional Networking","value":"https://www.shell.pl/o-shell/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking.html"}]},"id":"/content/shell/countries/poland/pl_pl/about-us/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking/jcr_content/root/footer/breadcrumb"},{"organism":"Container.Raw","ref":"https://www.shell.pl/about-us/_jcr_content/root/footer/inherited_copy_copy_.model.json","id":"/content/shell/countries/poland/pl_pl/about-us/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking/jcr_content/root/footer/inherited","model":{}}],"id":"/content/shell/countries/poland/pl_pl/about-us/careers/candidate-resource-centre/dos-and-dont-of-professional-networking/jcr_content/root/footer","model":{}}],"id":"/conf/shell/settings/wcm/templates/base/structure/jcr_content/root","model":{}}],"model":{"title":"The Dos and Don’ts of Professional Networking","text":"Professional networking can be a powerful tool for advancing your career. 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