You may be wondering how to network when you’re an introvert. Well, you know what they say, “ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE”. Introverted individuals’ biggest fears could very well be networking, and that’s ok. The tips I will provide you with can successfully lead to better networking strategies and solid approaches when introducing yourself to the networking world.
- Establishing meaningful connections: Ensuring every connection is purposeful and intentional will serve you much justice. Stepping out of your comfort zone is a challenge, so depicting when to take that initial leap is vital, whether this is in-person or virtually. Observing is the key to successful networking when you’re an introvert. What are you observing? Energy, personality, skills/abilities, background experience, etc. Finding commonalities in something one may have obtained that sparked your interest is a perfect beginning to a conversation. Complimenting and initiating small gestures can also lead to robust discussions surrounding future opportunities or valuable information being shared. The more meaningful the connection, the more organic conversations will be developed, which may not even feel like you’re networking but more so conversing casually.
- Researching: Some won’t categorize research as associated with networking, but it is. Exploring and gaining knowledge on specific individuals that you may find interesting, employers that you ideally would like to work for, areas that you would like to work in, and gaining concrete insight on career paths that you would like to pivot to are all things of the NETWORKING realm. This strategy may take more time than the direct approach, but the number of resources and knowledge you will obtain will be worth it. The indirect approach contributes to the ruling of self-discovery and perception of one’s views, which can be a positive or negative aspect of networking. Be open-minded when utilizing this approach, and consider creating a list of pros and cons.
- Embracing Yourself: Please don’t shy away from just simply being yourself. Start by reframing your mindset; view networking not as a high-pressure sales pitch but as a genuine opportunity to connect and share ideas. Prepare a few conversation starters that reflect your interests and passions, which can help ease the anxiety of initiating discussions. Focus on quality over quantity—having meaningful conversations with a few individuals is more impactful than meeting everyone in the room. Remember to listen actively; this shows genuine interest and takes the pressure off you to fill the silence. Finally, leverage online platforms such as the LinkedIn Alumni Tool to connect with people in your field; this can be a less intimidating way to build relationships before meeting in person. Embracing your unique strengths as an introvert—like your ability to form deep connections—can make networking a rewarding experience.
Next time you network as an introvert, remember these tips to create a more manageable experience. Embrace your confidence in each step you take; that initial leap is often the hardest, but it’s crucial for growth. Challenge yourself over the next 30 days to reach out to one or two individuals whose experiences intrigue you or who can provide valuable insights into your journey. Whether through a simple message or a casual coffee chat, taking these small actions can lead to meaningful connections and boost your networking skills. You’ve got this!
