This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.
Welcome to The Woman’s Career Podcast, where today we’re diving straight into one of the most powerful yet misunderstood career tools: networking. Whether you thrive in a bustling crowd or prefer quiet one-on-one conversations over coffee, effective networking is absolutely within your reach—and it’s vital for your growth, promotion, and well-being at work.
Let’s start by breaking down a major misconception. Many women shy away from networking, feeling it’s insincere or self-serving. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Countless women in leadership programs at places like the Center for Creative Leadership express that same hesitation. But here’s the truth: building your network isn’t about collecting names or schmoozing at back-to-back happy hours. It’s about creating deep, trusting, and mutually beneficial relationships—relationships that can be your greatest career asset.
So how do you get there, especially if the idea of “putting yourself out there” makes you want to run and hide? If you identify as an introvert, play to your strengths. Networking doesn’t have to mean being the loudest person in the room. Instead, focus on quality over quantity. Start small: reach out for one-on-one coffee chats, volunteer for cross-functional projects, or join a committee where you can build genuine connections slowly. Deborah Gray, a marketing professor at Central Michigan University, suggests shared activities—like book clubs or industry panels—as the secret sauce for forging meaningful professional ties beyond your comfort zone.
Now, for the extroverts listening, you may find networking exhilarating, but remember: it’s not a numbers game. Avoid spreading yourself thin. Instead, concentrate on building a diverse network filled with people who have different backgrounds and expertise. Show up at events, yes, but also stay intentional—follow up with those you meet, keep notes on shared interests, and make introductions between contacts. Creating value for others is the surest way to deepen those ties.
Here’s a crucial tip for everyone: specificity is your superpower. Asking your network, “Can you help me get a job?” rarely works. Instead, request a quick introduction, targeted advice, or a referral to a particular person or opportunity. Being clear about what you want makes it easy for your network to help.
Don’t forget to give back. Building what some coaches call “network karma” is essential. Share opportunities, make connections for others, and offer your skills where you can. Giving authentically sustains your network—but don’t fall into the trap of over-giving. Respect your own boundaries. It’s okay, even necessary, to say no when a request doesn’t align with your goals or capacity.
To keep your network fresh and growing, map it out from time to time. Consider who’s close, who’s distant, and who you’d like to know. Routinely reach out to maintain existing relationships and branch out strategically by joining professional groups or attending targeted events, whether virtual or in-person.
Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, remember that networking is a bundle of skills that you can develop in your own authentic way. Leverage your natural tendencies, challenge old assumptions, and recognize that the most effective networks are diverse, open, and built on trust.
Thank you for tuning in to The Woman’s Career Podcast. I hope you feel more empowered—and more prepared—to tackle networking on your own terms. If today’s episode was helpful, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a chance to invest in your career. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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