How To Nail Networking, Even When it Feels Super Awkward

04/21/25 • 31 min

Ever felt that full-body cringe when someone suggests "let's network"? You're not alone.
In this episode of BIZ, career powerhouses Michelle Battersby and Soph Hirst completely redefine networking for people who hate networking. Michelle reveals how she flipped the script with her genius "Anti-Network" events, while Soph shares how she built one of tech's most valuable professional networks... from a gutter (yes, really).
Get their exact scripts for cold LinkedIn outreach that won't make you die inside, learn exactly where to stand at a networking event so you don’t waste your time, and discover which networking style actually works for your personality.
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How To Ask For More Money (Without Dying From Awkwardness)
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Follow the Biz Instagram, Michelle’s startup Sunroom and Soph’s career coaching business Workbaby.
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HOSTS: Michelle Battersby, Soph Hirst and Em Vernem
EXEC PRODUCER: Georgie Page
AUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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This week we're advocating for the unsung heroes of the corporate world – EAs, PAs, and Assistants, you know the people who do it all – with practical tips on how to showcase your true value beyond "just" scheduling. Plus, the definitive guide to work trip etiquette (can your partner tag along in the company-paid hotel?), and Michelle reveals exactly when new business owners should make their big announcement.
Welcome to BIZ Inbox, where Em Vernem and Michelle Battersby turn your anonymous workplace questions into actionable advice. Think of us as your career group chat. Consider this your chance to get free career advice from people who've been there.
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THE END BITS
Support independent women's media
Follow the Biz Instagram, Michelle’s startup Sunroom and Soph’s career coaching business Workbaby.
HOSTS: Michelle Battersby and Em Vernem
EXEC PRODUCER: Georgie Page
AUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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INBOX: The First Day Outfit Strategy That Works For Every New Job

Ever shared something awkward with the big boss and immediately regretted it? This week we're solving the ultimate workplace etiquette dilemma – whether it's appropriate to mention your CEO's personal LinkedIn posts in real life. And if you're eyeing the exit door, stick around for our top three tips on how to resign without burning bridges or making things painfully awkward.
Welcome to BIZ Inbox, your workplace advice hotline where writer and podcaster Em Vernem teams up with entrepreneur Michelle Battersby tackle the workplace questions you've secretly googled in incognito mode!
If you want your work life issue solved, send us a voice note or email us at [email protected].
Sign up to the BIZ newsletter here
THE END BITS
Support independent women's media
Follow the Biz Instagram, Michelle’s startup Sunroom and Soph’s career coaching business Workbaby.
HOSTS: Michelle Battersby and Em Vernem
EXEC PRODUCER: Georgie Page
AUDIO PRODUCER: Leah Porges

Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Biz - How To Nail Networking, Even When it Feels Super Awkward

Transcript

Speaker 100:00:06.570

You're listening to a Mum with Me podcast.

Speaker 200:00:13.369

Hello and welcome to BIS your work life Sorted. I'm m Vernum and today we're diving into something that makes most of us want to crawl under our desks and hide.

Speaker 300:00:23.969

It's networking.

Speaker 200:00:25.449

So you know that feeling when you walk into a room full of stranger