All the same, there will be setbacks. Perhaps you didn’t land the job you coveted or a connection you thought was solid never returned your email. It’s how you bounce back from those that count. Sung calls this ‘mindfulness in rejection’.
“It’s important to understand that a ‘no’ today doesn’t mean a ‘no’ forever,” she explains. “There could be numerous reasons someone might not be open to connecting at a particular moment – they might be swamped with work, dealing with personal issues, or simply not in the right frame of mind. Don’t take these rejections personally. Instead, let mindfulness guide your reactions. Understand that everyone has their journey and challenges, and sometimes, it’s just not the right time.”
One of the most enriching aspects of networking is the opportunity to hear diverse stories and experiences. Every person you meet has a unique journey, filled with lessons, challenges, and triumphs. Listening is the essential underestimated art of good networking.
“Give space for people to share their stories,” Sung advocates. “Not only does this deepen your connection, but it also provides valuable insights. You’ll often find that many experiences are universal, and there’s comfort in knowing that your journey isn’t singular. By actively listening and engaging with others, you not only expand your perspective but also foster deeper connections.”
There are a number of groups dedicated to championing gender diversity in the media technology sector and breaking the glass ceiling. Among them are Rise, Gals N’ Gear, Women in Streaming Media and SVG Europe Women.
Sung is a member and mentor at Rise, an experience she says has been incredibly rewarding. “Rise isn’t just about advocacy; it’s about creating a genuine community,” she says. “Here, you can connect with others who understand the landscape, share experiences, and offer guidance.”
In sum, it is the genuine connections that make all the difference. Approach each interaction with an open heart and a curious mind, and you’ll find your place in no time.
Tip of the iceberg
There are hundreds of women in the industry working at the top of their game who are keen to inspire newcomers and those on the first rungs of their career to achieve their goals. You can hear more of them speak passionately about their experiences in our webinar Women in Media & Entertainment including Katie Wade, Head of Post Production at Casual; Monesha Madison Lever, Freelance Producer and Alex Budzinski, Director of Post Production at creative agency Designory. They also share tips on their decision-making processes, the technology they use, and their views on current issues in tech.
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