Make your point with a pin.

Madeleine Albright, US Secretary of State from 1997 to 2001, was known for her use of pins. Her book Read My Pins: Stories from a Diplomat’s Jewel Box, described these little symbols and how she employed them in the world of diplomacy. Students of International Affairs can learn from Secretary Albright. A man's formal wardrobe may offer fewer options for self-expression than a woman's, but the use of pins and other conversation cues transcends gender.

On the one hand, a current IA student is going through one of the darkest periods of world events in recent history, with a global pandemic and wars in Ukraine and Gaza. Issues are deep, wrenching and serious. Not much time for social trivialities. On the other hand, an emerging professional in the field must learn to appreciate the theater of diplomacy and professional networking, and in the process discover not only new social rhythms, but also a sense of fun.

Many in IA are “quiet professionals” who have a lot going on inside their heads, but need help in emerging to engage socially. Even formal or stuffy events can be an opportunity to play the diplomat and engage in interesting conversation.

Networking, which has been an important part of life of Washington, D.C. since the city’s founding in 1790, can be intimidating. What do I say? How do I start a conversation? Luckily, the social scene in the DMV has historically made room for people on the margins, who haven’t come from old money and high society. While black tie and tails can be a part of the social scene, they’re not the norm, and it’s also usually possible to move in and move up.

When I came to Washington, D.C. from Costa Rica in 1985, it was a cold and snowy January. I didn’t have a job, and pecked out a resume on my portable typewriter. I went to Capitol Hill and wandered through Congressional buildings, hoping that someone might notice me, which they didn’t. Finally I wandered over to the employment office at The American University, where I submitted an application and took a typing test on a huge IBM Selectric – the kind that hummed and vibrated when you turned it on, and let out a loud “thwack!” with each touch of the key.  

Since that time, I’ve gone to many events, receptions and social gatherings. I’ve moved through the world of public multilaterals (Inter-American Development Bank, The World Bank Group) and universities (including any in the DMV that has “George” in the name). Over time, I’ve come to see networking as less of a miserable social necessity, and more as a way to build connections joyfully.

During the global pandemic, wardrobes became less formal. Fewer people wear ties now, and dress shoes have been replaced by cumfy hybrids with cushy soles. Love it. However, since Washington, D.C. is a formal town, we’re not as loose as they might be in, say, California. There are places where a complete suit and tie are still the way to go when engaging with other professionals. For example, I recently went to lunch at the DACOR Bacon House, where the retired foreign service elite re-connect and mingle. A formal crowd, to be sure.

Nevertheless, for a reception or other event, young professionals in International Affairs can usually get away with some variety of navy jacket and khakis. A tie is still a nice touch.

The pin comes into play right before you head out the door. Nametags are a good place to clearly write out your first and last names, and pins can add a dash of fun. I’m fond of the little flag pins that have the stars and stripes on one side, and another country on the other. I have pins for countries where I’ve lived, including Costa Rica and France, and places I’ve visited regularly, like Denmark. I also have an M22 pin, for the scenic highway in Michigan which runs parallel to the Lake. If I’m brave, I can wear a clenched fist which says “Stand with Ukraine.”

Connected to each of these pins, I have highlights of my experiences, and fun stories which give a sense of my life as an internationalist. Most importantly, they serve as a platform which I can flip back to the person I’m talking to with a question like: what’s your favorite country to learn about or visit? IA students are often focusing on a particular region or country, and the conversation can continue from there.

Long and short, the things that we wear can become conversation cues. If you are in a less formal setting, there are even more options: caps, t-shirts, sweatshirts, lanyards – items that commonly fall in the category of “swag.” Managing your swag can bring you into conversations about people you love and cultures you value. If you feel like bragging, wear a t-shirt from your son or daughter’s university. If you had a great trip to Hawaii, wear a flowered shirt, and even a lei, to a summer party. The sky’s the limit.

That said, if you wear something with a logo or other reference, be prepared to talk about it. I have a lot of Chicago Cubs paraphenalia. I like baseball but I’m not a big sports fan, and I’d be challenged to name even a few Cubs players. The Cubs are an important part of my family culture and history. My Grandfather used to follow the Cubs, wrote for the Chicago Tribune and broadcast on WGN. My Aunt was “Cub Fan of the Year.” My Mom watched / listened to Cubs games throughout her retirement.

So if somebody notices the Cubs logo on a pin or a t-shirt, I give the family connection and tell the Chicago lore rather than reciting stats, mentioning players or talking standings. In the world of networking, if you’re wearing swag, think in advance about what you want to say about it when you’re heading into a social setting. Don’t put yourself down by saying “I’m not really a baseball fan.” Instead, say, “I love Chicago and all that baseball brings to its culture.”

Networking in International Affairs can feel daunting at first. Give yourself permission to have fun. Wear that pin, or cap, or logo. Think about what you want to say and what related questions you may have for other people. Don’t let networking be all dread and drudgery. Life is good; lighten up and enjoy the ride!