This morning, I attended a networking event with 450 people in attendance. It was crowded, the first part was outside (in Phoenix; in summer), and I had the last vestiges of a cold. Did I want to go? Not really. But I did.
If you’re an introvert, you probably read that and thought, “No way would I be at a place like that! And with a cold?!” I get it; it’s out of your comfort zone to network, but it’s what you might call a “necessary evil”—especially if you’re a job seeker. Today, I’m going to share some networking tips for introverts so, with practice, you’ll be almost as comfortable as those extroverts who are hugging everyone they meet.
First, a Confession
If you know me, you know I’m not shy. I’m a talker. But the truth is that, the older I get, the more I realize I’m more introvert than extrovert. As an only child with uninvolved parents, I had to be extroverted to get along. I was an Army brat, and we moved every few years, so if I didn’t step out of my comfort zone and talk to new people, I wouldn’t have met anyone. Thankfully, my nomadic, solo upbringing prepared me for my adult life where networking has been an integral part of my success.
But I’ll admit that I don’t always love the idea of going out networking.
Honestly, some days, I’d rather stay at my comfy home and not talk to anyone. But occasionally, I step out of my Converse All-Stars, put on my big-girl shoes, and attend an event. And I always survive. In fact, I’ve met some of my favorite people from networking and gotten a good chunk of business from it. The effort is worth it, and introverts, ambiverts, and extroverts can be equally successful—with the right tools and mindset.
Why Networking Matters
While statistics vary, it’s estimated that up to 85% of jobs are filled through networking. The adage “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know” still rings true. Even if you are comfortably snug in your current role, networking isn’t a muscle you only flex when you’re searching for a job. It’s a constant because it’s a long game. Here are just some of the benefits of networking:
- You’ll stay top of mind with your network.
- You can build lasting relationships.
- You’ll stay up on today’s industry trends and expectations.
- It can help develop and enhance your communication skills.
- It builds and expands your personal and professional brand.
- You may just make that one connection that makes it worth it.
I met my husband through networking, so I definitely think it’s something you should add to your regular routine. Now, let’s make it manageable with some networking tips for introverts.
Choose the Right Event
There are two primary options for networking: structured and unstructured. The event I attended this morning had both. We started with about an hour of open networking before moving to the breakfast buffet, grabbing a plate, and finding a seat at rounds of twelve people. We talked amongst ourselves for about twenty minutes, and then there was a keynote speaker.
Structured events can be much easier to manage for introverts. There’s an agenda, timeline, and expectations. You’ll know when you talk, when you listen, and when it’s over. Plus, there’s usually no alcohol at a structured event, so you won’t have as much chance for things to get crazy. Look for an event at breakfast or lunch. Some choices include chambers of commerce, BNI, speed networking, industry roundtables, mastermind groups, and lunch and learns.
Grab a Networking Buddy
One of the best networking tips for introverts that I can offer is to not do it alone. It is 100% okay to take a friend, colleague, or another job seeker out to your events with you. Having a networking buddy takes a lot of the pressure off you because you can introduce each other. Now, you don’t have to worry about marketing yourself; you just have to talk up your companion.
When asking someone to accompany you to a networking event, make sure you set a goal, such as how many people you want to meet. Share your networking commercials so that you can introduce each other. And don’t just go and hang out together. I know, it can be tempting to talk to your friend because, well, she’s your friend! But the idea of networking is to meet new people, so encourage each other to keep at it.
Practice Your Approach
Knowing what to say is a big part of a successful networking experience. At the core, you’re just having conversations, but you’ll likely be asked, “What do you do?” and you need to be ready for that. Remember, the reason you’re networking in the first place is to develop relationships—and to do that, people have to get to know you. Telling them who you are goes a long way in that direction.
If you’re stumped on what to say, try this:
“I’m currently looking for a position as [position], and I’m targeting [company/industry].”
Add a one-liner about your experience or something you accomplished, and you’ll have a simple, easy, and memorable answer to “What do you do?”
If you’re in a structured event where you’re asked to give a 30-second presentation, this framework also works. You can choose to add a little bit more about your experience and value add (avoid laundry lists, though), and then finish with:
“If you know someone in [company/industry] who’s looking for a great [position], I’d welcome an introduction.”
Feel free to write down your 30-second commercial and read or refer to it, if needed. You can’t do this with your introductory statement, but many experienced networkers do write down commercials to keep them on track.
Opt for One-to-One Meetings
Who says networking has to happen in a big room with hundreds of people? Meeting someone over coffee is still networking—and still valuable. Many of my clients prefer this networking tip for introverts because they feel that one-to-one connections are better (and easier, let’s be honest) than working a room and having five-minute conversations.
You can certainly meet people in a larger room and ask for a follow-up meeting, but if even that idea gives you heart palpitations, leverage LinkedIn. Look for someone who’s in the company or industry you’re pursuing and schedule a meeting. Bonus: this get-together can be in person or on Zoom!
Networking is just talking to someone, and however it feels right for you works!
Stay True to Yourself
For introverts, starting a conversation can be painful. Hugging? That’s just crazy talk. But there’s no rule on how networking happens. Networking tips for introverts include a wide range of options, but the main thing is to be yourself. If you’re not boisterous and outgoing, that’s okay. Prefer grabbing a table at the event and letting people come to you? Many extroverts will. Is an hour at an event your limit? Awesome; that works.
Just the fact that you’re making a concerted effort to get out there and connect with people will pay off huge dividends. And yes, you will become more comfortable with the process the more you do it. You’ll also meet more people, which helps. I’ll let you in on a secret: Now that I’ve been networking so long, I go to events and look for people I know. Invariably, they’re talking to people I don’t know, and I meet someone new. These days I very rarely pop into an ongoing conversation and meet new people on my own. But reconnecting is just as valuable! Remember that networking is a long game, and building relationships is the goal, so talking to people you’ve met previously is only going to cement you in their mind.
Top Networking Tips for Introverts: Follow Up
I don’t care if you’re quiet or loud, outgoing or shy, the key to success in networking doesn’t necessarily happen at the event. It happens afterward in the follow-up. Whether you met through a one-to-one or received someone’s card at a large event, when you get back to your computer, follow up. Send a LinkedIn connection request and an email. Mention where you met them, what you enjoyed talking about, and what you’re looking for as you move forward. Ask how you can help them. Suggest another meeting if it makes sense. Build. That’s the goal.
You Can Do This!
Networking isn’t just for extroverts; it’s for everyone. If you’re an introvert, you might actually be (gasp) better at networking because you make genuine connections rather than just distributing your resume to everyone you meet. I’ve known some world-class networkers who are, in fact, introverts, and they’re absolutely brilliant at networking. You can be one too.
I’m Amanda, Your Career Advocate, and I love sharing bits of wisdom to elevate your job search. I provide resume writing and LinkedIn optimization along with coaching and strategies to navigate a path to success. Want in? Learn more about the options here.