This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.
Welcome to The Woman’s Career Podcast, where today we’re getting right to the heart of what propels careers forward—networking, not just as a skill but as a superpower, especially for women. Whether you’re stepping into your industry or scaling new heights, crafting strong connections is a form of advocacy for yourself and for other women in your field.
Let’s tackle the art of networking with what matters most: authenticity. As women, we’ve often found ourselves navigating spaces dominated by the so-called “old boys’ club,” which means, as Solange Lopes, founder of The Corporate Sister platform, reminds us, we have to network differently. And that’s not just okay—it’s powerful. Start by revisiting your own network. Think about colleagues from previous jobs or different phases of your life. Sometimes our strongest supporters are people who’ve already witnessed our growth firsthand. A quick email or LinkedIn message can reignite relationships that open doors when you least expect it.
Before you attend any event, whether it’s a virtual meet-up, national conference, or local brunch, know yourself. Define your strengths and goals. Craft a clear elevator pitch, just like Weiping Wang did with her personal pitch deck. Whether you’re aiming to become a lead engineer, pivot industries, or find a mentor, have that introduction handy so others clearly understand your value and your purpose.
For many, the idea of “working a room” can be daunting. For introverts, remember, you don’t need to morph into someone you’re not. Preparation is your secret weapon. Jot down a few talking points or bring a networking buddy so you can enter conversations more comfortably. Join women-focused groups or organizations, where the environment might feel more welcoming. Authentic connections start with genuine curiosity—ask open-ended questions and listen actively. For extroverts, channel your energy into making people feel seen and heard, being mindful to give quieter members room to share.
Networking isn’t just about new contacts; it’s about keeping connections alive. Regularly follow up with a quick note, share an article relevant to a conversation you had, or congratulate someone on a new achievement. According to the University of Pittsburgh’s Career Central, sustaining these relationships is about “offering value,” creating a sense of mutual benefit instead of one-off favors.
Don’t underestimate the power of mentorship. Seek out senior leaders for guidance and learn to initiate those conversations—even just a short message can build a bridge. For example, a simple note on LinkedIn expressing your admiration for someone’s work and asking for career advice can go a long way.
And finally, when you’ve gained wisdom or made progress, give back. Participate in mentoring circles, support other women at events, and speak up about opportunities. That ethos of mutual empowerment not only widens your own circle but also lifts the entire community.
Thanks for tuning in to The Woman’s Career Podcast, where we turn networking into a tool for every woman’s success. If you found value today, subscribe so you never miss an episode. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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