EP 42: When Did Networking Become So Uncomfortable in Procurement Careers?

For many procurement professionals, the word networking triggers discomfort.

Awkward. Inauthentic. Contrived. Embarrassing.

And yet, relationship-driven opportunities remain one of the most powerful drivers of procurement career progression.

In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna and Laura unpack why networking has become so emotionally loaded in procurement careers, and why avoiding it may be quietly limiting your opportunities.

They explore the mindset barriers, the assumptions and the cultural narratives that make networking feel uncomfortable. More importantly, they reframe networking for what it truly is: building meaningful professional relationships.

Because procurement careers are not built through applications alone. They are built through trust, visibility and connection.

In this episode we explore

1. Why the word networking carries so much emotional weight in procurement
   How negative associations can create avoidance and self-doubt.
2. The reality of how procurement roles are secured
   Why the majority of opportunities come through relationships, not job boards.
3. Reframing networking as relationship building
   How shifting language changes behaviour and confidence.
4. Different ways to network that align with your personality
   From one-to-one conversations to planned event meetings and virtual connections.
5. The pressure of networking when job seeking
   Why urgency makes networking feel harder and how to approach it differently.
6. The importance of preparation and follow-up
   How the real relationship often begins after the initial conversation.
7. Building your network before you need it
   Why proactive relationship building creates long-term career leverage.

Takeaways

A reframed understanding of networking in procurement careers.

Practical ways to approach external relationship building with greater confidence and intention.

Encouragement to shift from transactional thinking to genuine connection.

A reminder that sometimes one conversation can change everything.

Hosted by
Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career
Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement

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Want to share your experience of networking in procurement? Message us via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page or reach out to Donna or Laura directly.