Lifestyle

Unleash Your Inner Introvert: A Guide to Networking Success

Like many introverts, Julie Bush, a 30-year-old co-owner of a consulting firm, once dreaded networking events. She would walk into a room thinking, “I don’t want to be here.” Initially, she tried to emulate an extroverted colleague, but it didn’t work. What Bush eventually realized is that authenticity is key to effective networking. She had to embrace her strengths as an introvert to become a better communicator.

Understanding Introversion

Introversion is not the same as being shy. It’s a personality style where one is more comfortable focusing on internal feelings than external stimuli. Introverts gain energy from spending time alone or with a few close people, while extroverts thrive in larger crowds. Contrary to popular belief, not all introverts are quiet. According to Morra Aarons-Mele, a self-described introvert and founder of Women Online, introverts share a common trait: they get drained by demanding social interactions.

Aarons-Mele wrote the book Hiding in the Bathroom: An Introvert’s Roadmap to Getting Out There (When You’d Rather Stay Home) to help others navigate the challenges of being an introvert in an extroverted world. Introverts often feel anxious about networking, but it’s crucial for career advancement. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, women receive less advice about advancement and have fewer interactions with senior leaders.

Taking the Plunge

Introverts may want to avoid networking situations, but pushing themselves a little can help. Rashea Jenkins, a communications manager, forced herself to attend monthly networking sessions. Initially, it was challenging, but she set a concrete goal to have a conversation with at least one person each session. Over time, she increased the number of people she would talk to, and her willingness to embrace her introvert tendencies helped her get promoted.

Managing the Energy Drain

Networking can be draining for introverts, a phenomenon known as “people exhaustion.” Taking time to rest before and after the event can help. Strategies include:

Taking breaks to recharge
Chunking your time to determine how long you’ll interact with people
Arriving early to find someone standing alone to talk to
Tag-teaming with an extrovert to ease into conversations
Sending follow-up thank-you notes and communicating via social media

It’s important for introverts to balance their energy and find ways to network effectively. By embracing their introversion, they can complement extroverted colleagues and build strong relationships.

For further reading, consider McKinsey & Company’s report on Women in the Workplace.