Bridging Horizons: Strategic Networking Amidst AI

The Centre for Academic and Professional Support (CAPS), CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa Campus, organised an interactive guest lecture titled “Strategic Networking Amidst AI” led by Mr. Ashwin Dhanabalan. The session focused on helping students understand the importance of building professional relationships, improving communication skills and using Artificial Intelligence (AI) responsibly in today's digital world.

The session began with an interactive warm-up activity where students shared their understanding of networking through one-word responses. The speaker introduced the concepts of strategy, networking and AI, explaining how having a clear purpose, building relationships and using technology responsibly can contribute to personal and professional development.

The discussion highlighted the importance of networking as a way to explore career opportunities, learn from experienced individuals and contribute to professional communities. Students understood that networking is not simply about collecting contacts or approaching people for favours but about developing genuine relationships through curiosity, meaningful conversations and mutual learning.

Five Major Learnings from the Session

1. Building Meaningful Professional Connections

Students learnt that networking is about creating genuine relationships rather than simply adding people to their contact lists. They understood the importance of showing interest in others, learning from their experiences and maintaining connections through regular communication and follow-through.

2. Learning How to Start a Conversation

The session helped students understand how to approach new people and communicate confidently. They learnt a simple four-step approach: introduce themselves, establish a common connection, ask a relevant question and listen carefully. This helped them understand how even a simple conversation can become the beginning of a valuable professional relationship.

3. Using LinkedIn and Other Platforms Effectively

Students explored different ways of connecting with professionals through LinkedIn, emails and webinars. They learnt how to write personalised connection requests, introduce themselves appropriately, ask focused questions and send polite follow-up messages. The importance of respecting people's time and maintaining professional boundaries was also discussed.

4. Understanding the Responsible Use of AI

An important learning from the session was how AI can support professional networking. Students understood how AI tools can help prepare introductions, improve messages and suggest relevant questions. However, they were also made aware of the importance of checking information, avoiding false claims and protecting personal information. The speaker emphasised that AI should assist communication rather than replace genuine human interaction.

5. Overcoming Hesitation and Taking the First Step

Through practical situations, interactive polls and message-rewriting exercises, students learnt how to approach professionals at conferences, connect with alumni and handle situations where their messages receive no response. They were encouraged to take small steps, such as speaking to a senior, attending an event, asking meaningful questions and following up on useful advice.

The session concluded with a seven-day networking challenge, encouraging students to apply their learnings in everyday situations. An open discussion also addressed common concerns such as shyness, hesitation and the fear of being ignored.

Overall, the session provided students with practical insights into building professional relationships and developing effective communication skills. It encouraged them to be confident, genuine and thoughtful when creating new connections. The key takeaway from the session was simple: Use AI to prepare, not to pretend. Start small, stay truthful and follow through.