By Patrina Pellett, PhD (Follow me on LinkedIn)

“Network,” they say. “It’s the best way to get a job,” they say. But let’s be honest networking is the worst. Awkward small talk, reaching out to strangers, and getting rejected. It's really cringey.

But there is no way around it! Whether you're an aspiring MSL, a seasoned professional, or trying to take the next step in your career, networking is essential. Also, networking isn’t optional for roles like MSLs, where relationship-building is everything.

On an office hours call in the Aspire MSL program, someone asked, "Should I focus on applying for jobs or networking?" Sarah Snyder suggested a 50/50 approach (and you should definitely listen because she is the ultimate career coach), but in my brain, I thought 100% networking. Here's why.

I got all of my Medical Affairs jobs through networking. For two of them, I didn’t even submit a resume. In one case, I met someone on LinkedIn just once, but that connection turned into a job opportunity 3 years later! This is the power of networking. The key? Knowing how to handle rejection and not letting it get in your way.

The Real Reason You Don’t Like Networking

The reason networking feels so daunting is because we are all scared of rejection. You send out messages, connection requests, maybe even talk to someone you don't know at an in-person event, and then are ghosted or rejected. But here’s the thing: rejection doesn’t define your worth. It’s how you respond to it that counts.

Networking is part of the game and is absolutely one of the best things you can do for your career. To help you move past the fear of rejection that comes along with it here are 7 strategies to overcome that fear and make networking work for you.

1. Rejection Often Means 'Not Now,' Not 'Never'

It’s easy to take rejection personally, but it’s often just a matter of timing. People are busy, distracted, or overwhelmed with their own lives. When someone doesn’t respond or declines your connection, it’s not a permanent "no." The timing might not have been right, but that doesn’t mean it never will be.

Or they might not have even received your message! It's possible they don't check LinkedIn or your email went into spam.

2. People Want to Help, Make it Easy for Them

Most people like helping others, but they’re busy, and sometimes they need a nudge in the right direction. Rather than sending a cold message asking for a favor, make it about them first. Engage with their content, comment on something meaningful they’ve shared, or offer value in some small way. Once you’ve established that connection, you’ll be amazed at how many people are willing to help.

Check out real-life networking messages that worked on me here.

3. Build Resilience Through Rejection

Every successful MSL or Medical Affairs professional has faced rejection. It’s part of the process. Rather than letting it discourage you, use it as a tool to build resilience. Every “no” gets you closer to the right “yes.”

Remember, if you can handle rejection in networking, you’ll be better prepared for the challenges you’ll face in an MSL role, where resilience is key. You will be ghosted and rejected by many KOLs in your time as an MSL.

4. See Rejection as Feedback, Not Failure

Every “no” is an opportunity to learn, but don’t fall into the trap of overthinking it. Ask yourself if the timing was off or if you could refine your message, but don’t obsess over what went wrong. Instead, treat rejection as a learning opportunity, while keeping your mindset positive. Sometimes, it’s less about what you did and more about external factors you can’t control.

This is how you turn rejection into a valuable learning experience, without driving yourself crazy over every detail.

5. Focus on Fewer, More Meaningful Connections

Instead of trying to connect with as many people as possible, focus on building real, meaningful relationships with a few key individuals. The depth of your connections is far more valuable than the quantity. When you create genuine rapport, you’re more likely to get support, and the fear of rejection lessens because your efforts are more targeted.

Don't forget to look at these real-life examples that worked on me.

6. Celebrate Small Wins

Networking is a long game, so it’s important to celebrate the small wins along the way. Did someone respond positively to your connection request? Celebrate that. Did you have a good conversation, even if it didn’t lead to a job? That’s a win too. Acknowledging these small victories helps you stay motivated and keeps rejection in perspective.

I am all about the small wins! Learn how to use them to overcome a job search slump or how to track progress and show value. 

7. Follow Up, Politely and Persistently

Following up is crucial in networking (and one that most people forget!), but you don’t want to be annoying. I personally appreciate gentle reminders. Sometimes I need that nudge to take action, especially when things get busy. A thoughtful, polite follow-up can make all the difference, so don’t be afraid to send one or two additional messages if you haven’t heard back.

Persistence pays off when done respectfully. You’d be surprised how many connections come through after a follow-up or two!

Conclusion: The Real Reason You Don't Like Networking

Networking can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Rejection is a natural part of the process. Instead of fearing it, embrace it. Remember how I landed my Medical Affairs jobs? It wasn’t by submitting resumes to hundreds of job postings. It was through meaningful connections and follow-ups that turned into opportunities.

How do you overcome the fear of rejection to land your dream job, make a career transition, or finally get a meeting with that KOL who has been ignoring you forever? Reach out to me on LinkedIn and/or comment on the MSL Mastery LinkedIn page!

Need Some Networking Help? Learn to Network Like a Pro

Remember networking is a skill to practice and master. If you want to improve in this area, I HIGHLY recommend the Aspire MSL program. There is a whole module on networking with 7 lessons and:

• How to do it effectively
• A detailed plan for building your network
• What to say to HR managers and recruiters

Many folks realize they have been doing networking all wrong before taking this course.

Nervous About Presentations?

Working in pharma and biotech means giving presentations. Lots and lots of presentations. Does that make you nervous? Don't worry! We all started that way. Check out this program by me and Sarah, where we virtually hold your hand and give you proven frameworks to excel in any presentation situation.