This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.
Welcome back to The Woman’s Career Podcast. Today, we’re diving right into a career skill that’s both powerful and often polarizing: networking. Whether you light up at the thought of a crowded conference room or would rather hide behind your laptop, networking is vital for your growth, support, and opportunity as a professional woman.
Let’s get something straight: networking isn’t about schmoozing or handing out stacks of business cards. According to Deborah Gray, professor of marketing at Central Michigan University, the real heart of networking is building genuine relationships—not just gathering LinkedIn contacts, but truly connecting so that you and others can thrive together. This matters for everyone, but for women seeking both opportunity and equity in their careers, a strong, thoughtful network is absolutely essential.
So how do you network effectively if you’re an introvert? The most important first step is preparation. Take time to research who will be at an event. Craft a simple, authentic elevator pitch—a brief statement about who you are and what you care about. Prepare a few conversation starters or questions you can lean on if you get nervous. Ellevate Network recommends having these ready to make showing up just a little easier. And remember, not every networking experience needs to be grand. One-on-one coffee meetings or volunteering for a project at work are equally powerful ways to build meaningful connections—often more comfortable for quieter personalities.
For extroverts, your natural enthusiasm is a huge asset, but intentionality matters. Be sure to listen as much as you speak, and focus on learning what motivates the people you meet. The Center for Creative Leadership recommends embedding yourself in new circles—women’s groups, industry meetups, or cross-functional projects. Stretch beyond your comfort zone and try connecting with people from different professional backgrounds or perspectives. Building a diverse network will open up new ideas and career pathways.
In either case, never underestimate the value of following up. The most successful women leaders, as shown by DDI’s global research, keep their networks strong by reaching out, offering support, and staying connected over time. A quick email after an event, a note of congratulations on a colleague’s achievement, or even introducing two contacts who could help each other goes a long way.
As you build your network, think of it in layers. According to the Academy of Management Journal, women benefit most from having a close “inner circle” of other women who can offer specific advice and support. But also look for mentors and sponsors—those influential advocates who will open doors when you’re ready for a new opportunity. Seek connections not just up the ladder, but across different sectors and communities. Networking works best when it’s a cooperative, supportive effort—especially when we make the pie bigger for everyone, as Embrace Change NYC puts it.
Wherever you are on your networking journey—introvert or extrovert, new to your field or seasoned leader—start today. Be authentic, give value before asking for help, and above all, support other women as you grow your circle. Thank you for tuning in to The Woman’s Career Podcast. Don’t forget to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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