Igniting Opportunities: D+W London, March 2025
Our March edition of Spark Your Network carried the momentum from October’s debut event and set the stage for another inspiring evening of learning, sharing, and practicing the art of networking. This time, we gathered just ahead of International Women’s Day – the perfect moment to reflect on the importance of building supportive connections in our data community.
While October was all about getting started and testing the waters, March took things a step further: we explored how to sustain and deepen relationships, how to give as much as you receive, and how to find your confidence even when networking feels scary.
Spotlight on the Panelists
“I have a genuine curiosity about people. If you ask people questions about themselves, everybody loves talking about themselves.”
Caroline Carruthers, Chief Exec at Carruthers and Jackson
Caroline, widely known as the UK’s first female Chief Data Officer and co-author of several influential books, brought a refreshingly honest perspective on impostor syndrome and vulnerability. She reminded us that being “the first” at anything can be lonely – and that’s why she feels a responsibility to show up, share openly, and encourage others to step forward too. Her advice? Lead with curiosity, give genuine compliments, and never underestimate the power of simply asking people about themselves.
“Networking isn’t about what you can get, but what you can give. Even something small can add value to someone else’s day.”
Eleanor Thompson, Founder of BrandWorks
Eleanor’s focus on partnerships and collaboration translated beautifully into the networking context. She challenged us to shift the mindset from “what can I get?” to “what can I give?” – whether that’s an introduction, a resource, or even a recipe! Her three takeaways were clear: start with the people you already know, be intentional about who you want in your network, and act as a connector for others.
“I’m an introvert. Walking into a room full of people and just starting a conversation is my worst nightmare.”
Toni Farrell, Regional Vice President at Tableau
Toni spoke candidly about being an introvert in a networking-heavy role. For her, the trick has been to find one friendly face ahead of an event and build from there. She also stressed the importance of writing things down (names, notes, moments of connection) so you can follow up meaningfully later. Toni’s parting wisdom? Surround yourself with people who lift you up – your network should energise you, not drain you.
Shared themes across the panel
A few ideas echoed again and again throughout the evening:
- Be intentional but human. Whether online or in person, networking works best when you bring your whole self into the conversation – interests, quirks, and all.
- Curiosity is your best tool. Asking thoughtful, open questions is often the easiest way to spark a meaningful exchange.
- It’s not just about you. Giving value, making introductions, and lifting others as you climb creates stronger, longer-lasting networks.
- Do it scared. Many of us still find networking uncomfortable – and that’s okay. The trick is to take small steps anyway.
“Start small, do it scared, and it’s okay for it not to be perfect.” – Eleanor
Practical Tips we took away
- Swap the question “What do you do?” with “What are you working on right now?” – it opens the door to much more interesting conversations.
- Be brave enough to walk away from a conversation that doesn’t click. Not every connection will stick – and that’s fine.
- Use LinkedIn (or your platform of choice) with intention. Don’t worry about algorithms or likes; focus on real connection.
- Mix your professional and personal networks when it feels right. Sometimes your “home” interests spark the richest professional conversations.
- One good conversation can be more valuable than 20 shallow ones. Depth over breadth wins every time.
Looking ahead to November 2025
“When I first started coming to data events, I was in real awe of people who could just walk up to strangers and start talking. I was terrified. Part of running these networking events is helping myself – and others – get over that fear.” – Ellie
The next Spark Your Network will be in November, focused on personal branding. We will explore how to show up authentically, how to share your story with confidence, and how to let your personal brand shape the opportunities that come your way. The evening will also finish with another round of networking games to put those ideas into practice.
If October was about re-learning how to network, and March was about deepening those connections, November will be about owning your voice and presence in the data community.
Networking is not about collecting business cards. It is about sparking opportunities. With the right design, those sparks can light the way for months and years to come!
The Data Front 
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