WWN by Anggie Salazar Ep09: Miriam Weiner

Hi Networkers! I'm Anggie, VP of Sales & Marketing at CROING l Creative Agency , a creative agency founded by Alejandra Salazar , and welcome to my newsletter, Women Who Network: Stories of Connection and Success.

I’m super excited to introduce our special guest today: Miriam Weiner . She is a digital product manager and storyteller who specializes in crafting accessible and impactful digital experiences. She currently oversees the content and technical roadmaps for the Guggenheim Museum’s website, and oversees the institution’s presence on the Bloomberg Connects app. Prior to joining the Guggenheim, Miriam held editorial and product leadership positions at the BBC and U.S. News & World Report.

Why did we start this newsletter?

As I always say, networking has played a key role in my career, and I have found through many conversations that it is an area where many women still don't feel confident or need a little push to explore further.

At CROING, we are motivated to inspire and empower professional women to feel more confident in networking. We believe that by sharing stories and experiences, we can encourage more women to connect and grow together.

I’m confident that Miriam’s story will motivate many women to embrace networking with more confidence. 💜

Beyond the Business Card: The Art of Genuine Networking

Miriam reflects on how her approach to networking has evolved over time, placing more emphasis on building real connections rather than just expanding her contact list.

Miriam: I now prioritize one-on-one and small-group networking opportunities over large gatherings. I find that a more intimate setting allows for a memorable conversation and a deeper connection. To that end, one aspect of networking I’ve always embraced is the cold connection. I do my best to respond to anyone who reaches out to me to network.

When it comes to navigating large networking events, Miriam takes a thoughtful approach, balancing her introverted nature with a desire to connect meaningfully.

Miriam: I find this really challenging at large networking events: I’m introverted, and often feel overwhelmed in big group settings. My approach to these scenarios is to establish a higher-level connection, exchange information, and reach out a day or so after the event to arrange a time to converse. This also ensures that I am mindful of that person’s time.

Anggie: responding to those who reach out takes effort, but it speaks volumes about your openness and willingness to build a network. It’s a simple act, but can make a huge impact on someone else’s career. This mindset shows that networking isn’t just about expanding your own opportunities—it’s about creating space for others too.

Miriam’s approach is something we can all learn from: prioritizing depth over quantity in networking and being open to unexpected connections. You never know where those cold emails or messages can lead!

Stories of Connection and Success: Miriam Weiner’s Edition

Networking isn’t always about formal events or scheduled meetings; sometimes, the most impactful connections happen when you least expect them. Miriam Weiner shares how a casual encounter transformed into a lasting professional relationship.

Miriam: I think it’s very easy to forget that any situation can be a networking moment. About five years ago, I met a friend of mine after work for a drink, and we happened to start chatting with the people sitting next to us. One of them turned out to be a recruiter, and when I mentioned I was looking for a career change, he offered to review my resume for me and practice interviewing. With his help, my applications started getting much more traction. We’re still in touch today.

Anggie: That’s a great example of how opportunities can come from the most unexpected places. It really shows the value of being open and approachable in every situation. You never know who you might meet!

Miriam emphasizes how connections can happen in the most unexpected ways, encouraging others not to limit themselves by putting their interactions into strict categories.

Miriam: I often find that there’s an inclination to group our connections by type, but I’ve made some really lovely friends through networking events, and even from cold calls. And I’ve taken opportunities to network with my friends, as well. You do yourself a disservice if you pigeonhole your connections too strictly.

Her experiences demonstrate that connections—whether personal or professional—can be fluid, leading to surprising and rewarding outcomes.

Networking Challenges: Lessons and Advice

Miriam Weiner shares a memorable experience from a career fair and offers valuable advice for women starting their professional journeys.

Miriam: I was asked back to my alma mater for a career fair and ended up on a panel with media professionals. During the Q&A, I was surprised by the questions I received: What I usually wear to work, what I like about my office... None of the students asked about how I applied my education to my career path. Conversations can miss the mark if you come unprepared. It is frustrating to have someone ask for my time and then expect me to carry the conversation.

Anggie: That’s such a great point about being prepared for networking conversations. It’s a reminder that preparation is key, even for informal interactions. People often forget that asking thoughtful questions can make a huge difference.

When it comes to overcoming hesitations in networking, Miriam encourages boldness and persistence.

Miriam: I struggle with this every day: Don’t be afraid to reach out to someone and ask to talk. I often feel like I’d be bothering someone for an introduction or to connect with me, and it makes me hesitate.

I remind myself that the worst thing that can happen is that they can say 'no,' and the world will keep spinning. Be bold, and know that one day, you’ll be in the position where you can help someone—and I hope you’ll say yes.

Thanks Miriam for sharing your journey!

At CROING, we echo this sentiment and have developed our Referral Program as a powerful networking and business tool. It’s a great way to connect, collaborate, and grow together.

As I always say: Don’t forget, your network is your net worth.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories in our next edition of Women Who Network: Stories of Connection and Success every Tuesday and Thursday.

If you want to be part of or propose someone for this space, please email me at anggie@croing.com.

Until next time, keep networking and growing!

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