[Friday Forum: Women in Tech] The Neuroscience of Networking -- Confidence, Connection & Career Momentum

​Join Seattle Tech Forum for our monthly virtual meetup for women in tech! This is a forum for tech/tech-adjacent women and their allies to connect with a supporting peer group of Seattle-area professionals.

​Each month we feature a different discussion topic. Sessions are free to attend and we keep our conversations confidential. We hope to see you soon!

​***

​March Topic: Neuroscience of Networking — Confidence, Connection & Career Momentum

​Networking isn’t just a skill — it’s a neurological experience. In high-stakes moments (job searches, transitions, new rooms, executive conversations), our brains can quickly shift into threat mode, impacting confidence, clarity, and connection.

​We’ll explore the neuroscience behind social threat, belonging, and performance — and how to work with your brain instead of against it.

​You’ll leave with a practical framework to:

• ​Understand what’s happening in your brain during networking interactions

• ​Regulate social threat responses in real time

• ​Build authentic connection without overperforming

• ​Sustain confidence and career momentum during transitions

​This session blends science, reflection, and practical tools you can immediately apply in your next conversation.

​

​Pre-Meeting Reflection Question 

​Before the session, reflect on:

• ​Think of a recent interaction — at work or in your personal life — where you felt activated, defensive, or less confident than usual.

• ​What specifically triggered that reaction?

• ​What story did your brain immediately begin to tell?

​

​Presenter: Katrina Naseem

​Katrina Naseem is a leadership and transition coach and founder of Alchemy Evolution Consulting, where she helps professionals turn moments of change into opportunities for growth.

​With a Master’s degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, Prosci Change Management certification, and training in Brain-Based Coaching Conversations through the NeuroLeadership Institute, she blends neuroscience with practical strategy to help leaders understand their response to change and move forward with clarity and confidence.

​Katrina is passionate about helping professionals quiet self-doubt, strengthen their voice, and take intentional action that builds lasting career momentum.

​***

​Have questions or other inquiries related to this series? Reach out to us at [email protected].