This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.
Welcome to The Woman’s Career Podcast, where we empower ambitious women to make bold moves and break through barriers at work. Today, let’s unlock the power of networking—an essential career tool that’s often misunderstood, particularly by women. According to Anna Radulovski from the WomenTech Network, more than 80% of women leaders say networking was instrumental in reaching executive roles, landing board seats, or negotiating higher pay. So why does networking sometimes feel so daunting?
Networking isn’t about collecting business cards or exchanging small talk with strangers in stuffy conference rooms—it’s about building a meaningful support system that lifts you up and drives your career forward. Sallie Krawcheck, a champion for women in finance, describes networking as the number one unwritten rule of career success. For women, though, breaking into traditionally male networks hasn’t always been easy. Fortunately, we’re rewriting the rules together.
If you’re an introvert, maybe networking feels intimidating or even insincere. Trust me, I get it. Solange Lopes, founder of The Corporate Sister, admits that as an introvert, the thought of networking made her cringe for years. But she found that preparing ahead—crafting a concise elevator pitch that truly reflects your expertise and passion—can make all the difference. Try preparing a list of topics or thoughtful questions you can ask others. If a crowded event feels overwhelming, start with smaller gatherings or join women-focused networking groups, where the atmosphere is often more welcoming.
For extroverts, networking may come more naturally, but the challenge is in transforming many surface-level connections into strategic relationships. Lean into your zest for conversation, but be intentional with follow-ups. According to the Center for Creative Leadership, meaningful networks are built not just on numbers, but on diverse, genuine relationships that cross boundaries—mentors, colleagues, sponsors, even those from completely different fields.
Whether you’re introverted or extroverted, making networking a daily habit is key. Don’t wait for industry conferences; initiate a coffee chat after a meeting, join a virtual women’s panel, or simply connect with someone new on LinkedIn with a thoughtful message. And always follow up—after every interaction, reach out, express gratitude, and keep the conversation going. Building a robust network is a long game, and nurturing those relationships over time is crucial.
Rejection can sting, but as executive coach Dana Theus writes, it’s not personal—it’s directional. If one conversation doesn’t go as planned, celebrate the clarity it brings and move forward with confidence. What matters is that you show up authentically and embrace the value you have to offer. Give support where you can, but honor your own time and boundaries.
Before you go, remember: Women who network don’t just advance their own careers—they pave the way for others. As you strengthen your network, look for opportunities to be a connector or mentor yourself. Each connection you make, each relationship you nurture, is a step toward greater influence and impact.
Thank you for tuning in to The Woman’s Career Podcast. If you found inspiration or practical tips today, please subscribe so you never miss an episode and share us with a colleague who needs a boost. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease dot ai.
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