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Cringe to Confidence: Mastering Authentic Networking with Michelle Gilbert

Posted on Dec. 11, 2025  /  Subscribe 0

Recently, new and seasoned professionals gathered at Oakland University for an interactive lesson on authentic networking led by Michelle Gilbert, CEO of Purple Engine Coaching & Consulting. 

Michelle, a recent past president of PRSA Detroit, began the event by sharing her own personal experiences with networking. Recalling moments throughout her career when networking experiences didn’t go right – something that many professionals and students can relate to. 

Her own relatability provided reassurance, allowing individuals around the room to feel more comfortable sharing their experiences with networking: fears, tips and their own stories. 

The Networking Lifecycle

The interactive presentation was based on the three stages of the networking lifecycle: before, during and after. Highlighting the importance of thinking about networking as a process rather than a short conversation. Below are tips shared throughout the evening at how to best succeed in networking. 

Before:

• Research who will be attending the event through conversations with fellow pros and social media engagement. This process will help set you up for success in conversations at the event.

• Consider bringing a friend or colleague to the event, sometimes knowing another person there can ease anxiety and be helpful for introductions. 

• Prepare your elevator pitch. Be prepared to share more about yourself, your career and experiences. 

During: 

• Be genuine and authentic. Those who are connecting with you want to get to know you, don’t be afraid to share more about your experiences!

• Stay engaged. Be thoughtful in conversations and genuinely pay attention to the conversation you are in rather than thinking about what you will say next. 

• Don’t spend the night with only one person. Chances are, there are many amazing professionals that you would love to chat with(and who would love to chat with you). 

After:

• Followup with the individual. Connect with them on LinkedIn or via email and send a personalized message about your conversation. 

• Share about your experiences at the networking event with your network. This is a great way to spark conversations and encourage familiar attendance at future events. 

• Continue to attend networking events in the future. There are always new opportunities to meet and connect with others. 
  

Special thanks to Michelle Gilbert and the New Professionals Committee for putting together such an amazing event, and to Oakland University for hosting.

Interested in more information about the event? Check out this article written by Addison Koch, features writer at the Oakland Post! 

Allison Gavagan is a junior at Oakland University studying Public Relations & Advertising and Psychology. She is the 2025 Chapter Intern at PRSA Detroit and the Communications Intern at Uncommon Bold.

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