Practical, personal advice from inspiring women to help you build meaningful connections at events like Tableau Conference TC25.
Networking has long been the cornerstone of career growth—whether you’re looking for new opportunities, learning from others, or building a stronger community. As I attend Tableau Conference TC25, I’m reflecting on some of the brilliant insights shared by women who’ve spoken at our Data + Women London events. These women have shared their experiences, wisdom, and strategies for networking in the data and analytics space.
If you’re preparing for TC25 or any other event, here are 10 essential networking tips that I’ll be putting into action, and you can too:
1. Connect beforehand to have a friendly face
Tony Farrell shared how reaching out to someone before an event can ease anxiety and help you walk into a room knowing you have a friendly face to greet. I’ll be messaging a few people ahead of TC25 to make sure I start my networking with a comfortable introduction.
2. Focus on what value you can offer, not just what you can get
Eleanor Thompson, emphasized the importance of thinking beyond personal gain. Networking is about what you can give—whether it’s advice, introductions, or just being a supportive presence. At TC25, I’ll focus on connecting others and providing value through meaningful interactions.
3. Be genuinely curious and listen
Caroline Carruthers spoke about the power of listening with intention. Asking thoughtful questions and giving your full attention to the conversation fosters trust and deepens connections. I’ll be making an effort to be present and curious in every conversation I have this week.
4. Ask, “What are you working on right now?” instead of “What do you do?”
This tip, shared by Caroline, Eleanor, and Toni, is a great way to move past surface-level conversations and into discussions that reveal what truly excites people. I’m planning to use this question at every opportunity, as it helps to uncover passions and current challenges.
5. Be vulnerable—it builds real trust
Elizabeth Maxson Martinet (EMax) encouraged us to embrace vulnerability and share our struggles, as it creates a space for others to do the same. Being authentic helps to build deeper connections and trust. This week, I’m allowing myself to be real, not perfect, and to embrace the beauty of vulnerability.
6. Ask for introductions
Networking is a two-way street. EMax reminded us that asking for introductions is not only okay, it’s encouraged. People are often willing to help, and the act of asking can create valuable connections. I’ll be actively seeking introductions at TC25, both for myself and to help others connect.
7. Set intentional goals for who and how you want to connect
Sarah Bartlett stresses the importance of setting networking goals to focus your efforts. Whether it’s meeting people in specific industries or learning about new trends, having a goal makes your interactions more impactful. I’ll be setting clear intentions for whom I want to connect with and what I hope to gain from those conversations.
8. Networking is about building relationships, not transactions
Sarah also emphasized that networking should be about creating authentic relationships. It’s not just about ticking off a list of contacts, but about building long-term, meaningful connections. I’m focused on developing deeper relationships rather than transactional ones at TC25.
9. Create a comfortable environment for others to network
EMax shared how she created a “Salesforce Mamas Group” to help working mothers connect and share experiences. She highlighted the importance of creating safe spaces where people can be their authentic selves. This is something I’m committed to doing—by being open, supportive, and approachable to anyone who needs it, both this week at TC25 but also with the Data + Women London User Group.
10. Follow up and maintain connections
The work doesn’t end once you’ve exchanged business cards or LinkedIn connections. Sarah advises following up and continuing to nurture relationships. I’ll be sure to stay connected with everyone I meet, whether through a quick LinkedIn message or a friendly check-in.
These tips, shared by incredible women who inspire me, provide a roadmap for networking with authenticity, intention, and purpose. I’m bringing these into action at TC25 and look forward to building meaningful connections with new and old faces alike!
The Data Front 
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