Don't Say That

Networking isn't always a pleasant experience for researchers, says Benchfly's Alan Marnett, especially as it can often seem like a waste of time when there are more pressing things to be done in the lab. However, he says, "nothing could be further from the truth," as networking can help you land a job or make important contacts. However, Marnett adds that there are some topics to avoid during conversation — namely sex, politics, economics, religion, and the military, which conveniently form an acronym, SPERM — as they might be socially "sensitive." As it's imperative to make a good first impression when networking, Marnett lists some potentially uncomfortable opening lines to avoid. He says it's probably best not to begin a professional conversation with any of the following: