This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.
Welcome to The Woman's Career Podcast. Today, we’re diving right into a topic that can redefine your career trajectory: networking effectively, whether you’re energized by a room full of people or you’d rather have a quiet coffee one-on-one. If you’ve ever wondered how introverts and extroverts can leverage their strengths and make networking feel empowering instead of intimidating, you’re in the right place.
Let’s begin with the most important foundation: know your why. Before you send that LinkedIn message or walk into any event, clarify your purpose. Are you looking for mentorship, new opportunities, or to elevate your visibility? Defined intentions, as advocated by thought leaders like Brené Brown, help you gravitate towards the right connections. This sense of clarity ensures that your networking isn’t random—it’s meaningful and strategic.
Now, to my fellow introverts, networking doesn’t have to mean working the whole room. The research highlighted at the Kellogg School of Management stresses that women often benefit from deep, quality-focused networks rather than sheer numbers. Start small. One memorable conversation can be more valuable than a stack of business cards. Set boundaries—attend one in-person event a month, but balance with online networking. Create authentic touchpoints; a thoughtful LinkedIn comment or a sincere follow-up email shows your genuine interest and strengthens those new relationships.
For extroverts, your natural energy is a superpower in networking environments. Use your enthusiasm to facilitate group conversations and introduce others—which isn’t just good for you, but lifts up the whole community. Just remember, the most effective networkers aren’t the ones who talk the most, but those who really listen. Practice the art of asking open-ended questions, like “What’s something you’re excited about this year?” and let others shine. Listening deeply, as suggested by leaders at Stanford Women’s Leadership Innovation Lab, helps you forge trust and inspire collaboration.
Regardless of where you fall on the introvert-extrovert spectrum, focus on quality. According to HiHello’s research, leaning into women-centric networks—such as Ladies Get Paid or Chief—gives you access to advice from those who truly understand your challenges. Remember, showing up as your authentic self, rather than a polished, perfect version, is powerful. Vulnerability creates connections. Ask for help when you need it. Most women want to uplift other women; your network is stronger when you embrace mutual support.
Networking should be woven into your everyday routine rather than treated as a single event. Try a “Connection Monday” ritual—reconnect with a mentor, thank a colleague, or simply encourage a peer taking a bold step. And never forget the follow-up; whether it’s a thank you email or sharing an article discussed over coffee, that step transforms a quick chat into a genuine relationship.
I want every listener to leave today with this: your network is not just a career tool—it’s your community, your amplifier, your resilience. Approach networking as an empowering habit and help rewrite what career growth looks like for women.
Thanks for tuning in to The Woman’s Career Podcast. If you found value in today’s episode, subscribe now so you never miss an empowering conversation. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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