This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.
Welcome back to The Woman’s Career Podcast. Today we’re diving straight into what could be the most game-changing skill of your professional life: how to network effectively, especially as a woman navigating workplaces still shaped by old rules. Whether you light up a room or prefer to observe quietly from the sidelines, this episode is packed with actionable steps you can use starting today.
Here’s what’s undeniable: it’s not just what you know, it’s who knows your value. Studies, like the one highlighted in the Harvard Business Review, show that women with strong female-dominated networks are significantly more likely—over twice as likely, in fact—to reach executive positions. These circles aren’t built solely on status or convenience, but on honest conversations, shared resources, and lifting one another up. Jacqueline V. Twillie, whose work in women’s leadership training is legendary, calls this mutual growth the very heartbeat of powerful networking.
But let’s break it down. For introverts, the word ‘networking’ may bring a sense of dread. You don’t have to morph into an extrovert or attend endless mixers. Instead, focus on deep, meaningful connections—start by reaching out one-on-one to someone in your industry, or send a thoughtful follow-up after a conference. Lori Harder, entrepreneur and podcast host, swears by the power of being the person who “aggregates” value in the room—sometimes quietly connecting two people who should know each other. These small, intentional actions—like sending a resourceful article or checking in just because it’s Wednesday—go further than grand gestures.
If you thrive in lively environments, use that spark to introduce people, moderate discussions, and create spaces where others can shine as well. According to Sharmadean Reid, founder of The Stack World, asking curious questions and genuinely listening is your secret weapon. Approach each interaction with a mindset of “How can I help?” rather than “What can I get?” And if a networking event feels daunting, remember: presence matters more than presents. Your authenticity will foster memorable connections.
A key habit, both for introverts and extroverts, is scheduling time for your network. Maybe that means blocking off an hour each week to check in with contacts or sending a quick voice note to a mentor. Heidi Roizen, a veteran Silicon Valley connector, emphasizes consistency—relationships are compounded investments. And remember, jobs and opportunities often come not from your closest contacts but from your extended circle—so don’t be shy about expanding your reach.
Let’s bust a major myth: you don’t need money or status to network. You just need intentionality and follow-through. In those circles, confidence grows and success multiplies when we support each other. So share that insightful podcast. Make that introduction. Celebrate someone’s win. And don’t forget to ask for support, too—it’s not a sign of weakness, but of wisdom.
Thanks for tuning in to The Woman’s Career Podcast. If today’s episode helped you reframe how you’ll approach networking, please subscribe and share with a friend who could use some sisterly strategy. Until next time, keep growing and lifting as you climb. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
For more http://www.quietplease.ai
Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
