Networking is a vital skill for any professional, but especially for those who are new to the oil and gas industry. The sector is dynamic, competitive, and global, and having a strong network can help you access opportunities, learn from experts, and advance your career. In this article, we will share some tips on how to build a strong network as a new oil and gas professional.
You may already have some contacts in the oil and gas industry, such as former classmates, colleagues, mentors, or instructors. These are valuable sources of information, advice, and referrals, so make sure you keep in touch with them regularly. You can also ask them to introduce you to other people in their network who may be relevant to your interests and goals.
I learned a lot through trial and error to develop the network I have today: 1. Go to industry events such as conferences, happy hours, workshops, lunch and learns. There is no replacement for in person networking and communication. Have business cards handy, even if you don't have a job. Exchange business cards with other professionals 2. Present something technical or professional to an oil and gas audience. 3. Post content on professional social media sites such as linkedin. Do NOT post controversial topics, rather, take the safe route and post educational and informative content 4. Make sure you keep in touch with your contacts frequently and ask what you can do for your network, not what your network can do for you :)
I would recommend new O&G professionals to be active and proactive: to attend industry events, to join societies and relevant groups, to use platforms like LinkedIn, continue education (seminars, courses), there you can meet professionals who can share their knowledge and experience.
In my view, given the diverse nature of our connections spanning different domains or specific niches within a domain, I recommend focusing on personal development before expanding your network. Identify your areas of interest and expertise, and actively connect with individuals in those domains. By engaging with like-minded people, you can offer assistance to those in need of resources or knowledge within your expertise while seeking guidance from experts in your field of interest. This approach aligns your connections more closely with your goals. I firmly believe that well-aligned connections are more valuable than a large quantity of connections.
Building a strong network is key to the growth of a young professional because it could serve as a means of encouragement and career transformation. The following are some ways one could build a network 1. Attending Conferences 2. Volunteering to selfless and professional associations 3. Being active in professional platforms. 4. Building visibility while optimizing the use of the internet or social media platforms like LinkedIn 5. Active participation in personal development 6. Be receptive to others
Join professional societies like SPE or AAPG and offer to volunteer. Through that you come across diverse groups of professionals to who could impact your career.
One of the best ways to expand your network is to join industry associations and attend events related to oil and gas. These can be local, regional, national, or international, depending on your availability and budget. You can find out about these opportunities through online platforms, newsletters, magazines, or word-of-mouth. When you join or attend, make sure you have a clear purpose, prepare your elevator pitch, and exchange business cards or contact details with the people you meet.
Young petroleum executives should associate themselves with premier organizations such as SPE. These organizations provide platforms to the youngsters and opportunity to learn from industry experts by participating in conferences & workshops.
Networking is one the most important skills to have. If you are currently unemployed, I would suggest to print a business card with your name, education and with what you’re aiming. There are plenty of Oil and Gas events, and changing contacts can be very important.
Becoming a part of industry associations and engaging in events can establish a foundation for advancing professionally, fostering collaboration with peers, and remaining at the forefront of industry advancements.
The young professional, in order to start their networking journey effectively, first and foremost needs to seek specialization and maximize their versatility of knowledge, developing a certain level of confidence and credibility in what they express. In light of this, it would be incredibly beneficial to aim to participate in all possible events within the oil and gas industry, in order to get acquainted and maintain solid references that will eventually assist in positioning oneself within this sector
The communication with the other through events or workshops is a key to achieve great opportunities as learning, job opportunities or make a strong network which it helps in the petroleum industry very much
Social media and online platforms are also powerful tools for networking in the oil and gas industry. You can use them to follow industry news, trends, and influencers, as well as to showcase your skills, projects, and achievements. You can also use them to connect with other professionals, join groups and forums, and participate in discussions and debates. Some of the most popular platforms for oil and gas professionals are LinkedIn, Twitter, Oilpro, and Rigzone.
In my experience, a great way to use Linkedin would be to search the top Voices in the O&G space. Follow those individuals and learn from them! Those with the knowledge are often eager to share with those willing to put in the effort of learning!
Utilizing social media and online platforms is a powerful strategy for networking in the digital age. Platforms like LinkedIn offer a virtual space for professionals to connect, share insights, and discover opportunities. Building a robust online presence is key. Connect with professionals worldwide, breaking geographical barriers. Online platforms provide a 24/7 networking environment, fostering ongoing connections. I understand that digital interactions may lack the personal touch of face-to-face meetings and that managing online connections can become overwhelming without effective organization. However, give it a try and grow step by step at your own pace.
Networking is not a one-way street. You need to be proactive and helpful in building and maintaining your relationships. This means you should follow up with the people you meet, send thank-you notes, share useful resources, offer assistance, and ask for feedback. You should also be respectful, courteous, and professional in your communication, and avoid spamming, selling, or asking for favors without giving anything in return.
As per I have experienced: If one goes for proportionate conversation about how one can contribute or support ongoing challenges by demonstrating their methodology then it can really help young minds to build a strong and relevant network.
In the realm of renewable energy, hydrogen, carbon capture, and the pursuit of net-zero are interconnected avenues. Similarly, networking thrives on reciprocity. Proactively nurture relationships by following up, expressing gratitude, sharing valuable resources, extending assistance, and seeking feedback. Just as sustainable energy systems require balance, maintain respect, courtesy, and professionalism in your communications. Avoid one-sided interactions; instead, foster an exchange of value, steering clear of spam and self-serving requests. This symbiotic approach mirrors the collaborative efforts needed for a sustainable energy future.
In the realm of renewable energy, hydrogen, carbon capture, and the pursuit of net-zero are interconnected avenues. Similarly, networking thrives on reciprocity. Proactively nurture relationships by following up, expressing gratitude, sharing valuable resources, extending assistance, and seeking feedback. Just as sustainable energy systems require balance, maintain respect, courtesy, and professionalism in your communications. Avoid one-sided interactions; instead, foster an exchange of value, steering clear of spam and self-serving requests. This symbiotic approach mirrors the collaborative efforts needed for a sustainable energy future.
I have found to be true that proactivity and helpfulness are the cornerstones of a lasting network. Actively seeking opportunities to assist colleagues, sharing knowledge, and providing support contribute to a positive professional reputation, making others more inclined to reciprocate. eing known as a helpful professional enhances your reputation within the industry. Offering assistance often leads to receiving support when needed. New professionals should tailor their networking strategy to their personal strengths and preferences while remaining open to diverse methods for building a strong and enduring professional network.
Finally, networking is not only about who you know, but also about what you know and what you can do. To be a valuable member of your network, you need to keep learning and improving your skills and knowledge in the oil and gas industry. You can do this by taking courses, reading books and articles, watching webinars and podcasts, or joining mentoring or coaching programs. By doing so, you will demonstrate your passion, curiosity, and commitment to your career.
Con el networking además de tener la oportunidad de establecer contacto con gente con distintos niveles de conocimientos, también he conocido distintas culturas o formas de trabajo que suman al conocimiento general. También al expandir estas redes uno va descubriendo distintas maneras de aprender u optimizar nuestras habilidades, ya sea con nuevas carreras para estudiar, o que webinars, libros o plataformas son de buena calidad. Hoy en día la oferta es grande para aprender a utilizar distintos softwares o la teoría de temas específicos.
I agree, as oil and gas industry is continuously evolving industry one must learn and sharpen skills to be a part of it. Learning never exhausts the mind and makes you able to perform you tasks efficiently. Darwin’s “Survival of the fittest “ is truly applicable in this era. Finally learning is a true asset which helps one to outperform among individuals.
I had the opportunity of teach in the university for few years and it was a great way to meet colleagues and improve my network.
Leverage School Networks: Participate in student clubs related to oil and gas. Leadership roles or active involvement can lead to connections who often engage with these clubs. Utilize internships and summer jobs. Treat these opportunities not just as work experiences but as gateways to long-term professional relationships. Engage with your school's alumni network. Alumni who are established in the industry can provide guidance and introductions. Cultivate your network continuously, not just when you need a job or favor. Building relationships over time ensures a robust network when you eventually need it. Authenticity is key. Show genuine interest in people. Ask insightful questions and actively listen to their experiences and advice.
The oil and gas sector is a massive industry with a wide variety of professionals in different roles (drillers, geologist, economist) which means there are opportunities to meet people with different knowledge and view and build a network. Relationships are a vital part of enjoying a successful career in the oil and gas, and developing those relationships involves interacting with professionals across all sectors
One thing I have found helpful is to actively participate in industry events, conferences, and workshops. Engaging with colleagues, industry experts, and potential mentors in person establishes a more memorable connection. In-person networking allows for a more personal and impactful connection. Establishing rapport during events can lead to quicker and more meaningful relationships. Geographical constraints may limit the frequency of face-to-face interactions and also Attending events regularly can be time-consuming and costly so decide wisely based on your goals.