This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.
Welcome back to The Woman’s Career Podcast, where we cut through the noise and get straight to the real tools you need to thrive. Today, we're diving into the power of networking—how to do it well, and how to make it work for you whether you’re an introvert, an extrovert, or somewhere in between.
Let’s start with why networking matters. As Sallie Krawcheck of Ellevest once said, networking is the number one unwritten rule of success in business. For women, it’s often the key to mentoring, new opportunities, and real career advancement. This isn’t about collecting business cards or adding connections on LinkedIn just to boost your numbers. True networking is about building authentic, meaningful relationships with people who can empower your journey—and whom you can support in return.
Before you step into your next event, take a few minutes to revisit your existing network. Maybe there’s a former coworker you haven’t chatted with since you switched companies, or a college peer who’s now making waves in your industry. Reconnecting doesn’t require reinventing the wheel; it’s often those familiar faces who can open surprising doors.
Preparation is everything. Legendary women’s advocate Weiping Wang highlights the power of a strong, crafted introduction. Have your elevator pitch ready—not just your title, but what you’re passionate about and what makes you different. Think: “I’m a marketing professional with a passion for brand storytelling, and I help startups find their voice.” Go a step beyond and be ready with a short list of things you want to learn or people you’d like to meet.
Now, whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert can shape your networking approach. Introverts tend to shine in one-on-one or small group settings. So, seek out coffee chats over large mixers. Begin in spaces you feel comfortable—women's groups, book clubs, or online communities. And remember, networking can start before or after the “official” event. Sometimes the best connections happen in quieter corners.
Extroverts, you have energy to share—use it to initiate conversations, but don’t forget to listen as well as talk. You can use your knack for meeting people to help connect others—a powerful way to become a connector in your own network.
Networking is not a “one and done” activity. Follow-up is where the magic happens. Send a genuine message on LinkedIn or a short email after an event. Mention something from your conversation to make it personal. Regularly touch base with your network—share articles, resources, or just ask how they’re doing.
Mentorship is a hidden gem in networking for women. Seek out women you admire, whether it’s someone like Solange Lopes, founder of The Corporate Sister platform, or industry changemakers you meet at conferences. Don’t be afraid to ask for mentorship—most leaders are happy to share their experiences.
No matter your personality, build an authentic personal brand. Clarify what you stand for, what you want, and communicate that clearly. When you show up authentically, the right people will be drawn to you and opportunities will follow.
Thank you for tuning in to The Woman’s Career Podcast. Let’s grow our networks with intention and support each other along the way. Be sure to subscribe, and remember—this has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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