Part 2: Networking That Works — Building Relationships That Open Doors
When most people hear the word networking, they picture awkward small talk, endless business cards, and forced smiles at events they can’t wait to leave. But real networking — the kind that creates opportunity, collaboration, and growth — isn’t about transactions. It’s about connection.
Networking done right is one of the most powerful forms of leverage. Because when you invest in people — genuinely and consistently — those relationships can open doors that effort alone never could.
And here’s the good news for introverts: you don’t need to be the loudest person in the room to network effectively. In fact, your natural strengths — listening deeply, thinking before speaking, and forming genuine one-on-one connections — make you an exceptional networker when you play to them intentionally.
The Myth of Networking
Many professionals avoid networking because it feels fake or performative. They associate it with people who “work the room,” hand out cards, and talk more than they listen.
But authentic networking is not about who you can get something from; it’s about who you can grow with.
Networking is simply the process of exchanging value, encouragement, and ideas with others. When you reframe it that way, it stops being intimidating and starts feeling purposeful.
Stepping Into Real-World Networking
When I joined Toastmasters International, my only goal was to improve my public speaking — not to network. I remember my first meeting: a mix of professionals from different backgrounds, all with one thing in common — a desire to grow.
As an introvert, I didn’t try to meet everyone in the room. Instead, I focused on meaningful conversations with a few people each meeting. Over time, those consistent interactions turned into genuine friendships and collaborations.
Serving as Vice President of Public Relations, Education, and Membership gave me opportunities to connect with people through shared goals rather than forced conversations. We exchanged feedback, celebrated each other’s progress, and opened doors for one another.
That’s networking that works — relationships built on trust and shared growth, not self-promotion.
Networking Through Service
Another powerful networking experience came from volunteering.
I once served dinner to individuals with special needs and their caregivers. Normally, I would have stayed in the kitchen, safely behind the scenes, but I challenged myself to serve food directly to the guests and engage with them.
At first, I didn’t know what to say. But when I shifted my focus from my own nervousness to their needs, the discomfort disappeared. I discovered that networking — at its core — is an act of service.
When you make people feel valued, they remember you. Not because you wanted something, but because you cared.
For introverts, this is the perfect approach: it replaces pressure with purpose. Instead of “performing,” you’re simply connecting through empathy and contribution.
Three Principles of Effective Networking (Especially for Introverts)
1️⃣ Give Before You Ask
Offer value first. Share a helpful resource, introduce two people, or simply express appreciation. Small acts of generosity build trust faster than any sales pitch.
2️⃣ Be Consistent, Not Convenient
Don’t wait until you need something to reach out. Send a quick message every few weeks to check in, congratulate someone, or share an article that reminded you of them. These small, thoughtful gestures are manageable for introverts and incredibly effective over time.
3️⃣ Show Up Authentically
You don’t have to change your personality to succeed at networking. Speak sincerely, listen attentively, and be yourself. People respond to realness more than polish.
Networking Online: Quiet Connection, Big Impact
In today’s digital world, introverts have a distinct advantage: online networking allows you to engage meaningfully — at your own pace.
You don’t need to attend every in-person event to expand your reach. Platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube, and professional communities provide spaces where thoughtful participation stands out.
Here’s how introverts can use them strategically:
Share your perspective: Write posts, articles, or comments that reflect your expertise and experiences.
Engage intentionally: Comment thoughtfully on others’ posts — a genuine insight often sparks lasting conversation.
Follow up quietly but consistently: Send thank-you messages or notes of appreciation. Introverts excel at meaningful one-on-one communication.
Consistency builds familiarity, and familiarity builds trust — even online.
Your Networking Action Step
This week, identify three people you’d like to reconnect with or build a relationship with — a colleague, mentor, or peer you admire online.
Send each one a short, thoughtful message — not asking for anything, just checking in or sharing something valuable.
If you’re an introvert, do this in writing first. Writing allows you to be intentional and articulate — one of your greatest strengths.
Over time, these small steps will multiply into a strong, supportive network.
✅ In Part 3 of this series, we’ll explore “The Content Advantage” — how to use your writing, voice, and creativity to build authority, inspire others, and let your message work for you even when you’re not in the room.
