This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.
Welcome to The Woman’s Career Podcast. Today, we’re diving straight in on a topic that’s essential to every woman’s career journey: networking effectively. Whether you identify more as an introvert or extrovert, I’m here to share actionable strategies, expert perspectives, and a dash of real-world inspiration to help you create, grow, and leverage the connections that can truly transform your career.
The truth is, as Sallie Krawcheck—a vocal advocate for women’s advancement—reminds us, networking is the number one unwritten rule of success in business. Yet, many women have mixed feelings about it, often believing it’s self-serving or that it only works for certain personality types. But let’s flip the script. Networking is simply about building relationships, not about schmoozing in a room full of strangers.
For introverts, the thought of networking can feel draining, even intimidating. My advice is to start small and prepare. Craft your elevator pitch. Know exactly what you want to say about your unique skills and experience. Solange Lopes, CPA and founder of The Corporate Sister platform, suggests having a mental “laundry list” of discussion topics. Preparation builds confidence, quiets nerves, and makes those first connections much smoother. Don’t forget, joining women’s networking groups or attending events with a buddy can ease you into new circles.
Now, extroverts, your energy is your superpower—and sometimes your Achilles heel if it causes you to spread yourself too thin. The challenge is to focus, be intentional, and nurture the relationships you form. According to Deborah Gray, professor of marketing at Central Michigan University, networking isn’t about having hundreds of LinkedIn contacts; it’s about cultivating meaningful connections through shared activities, volunteering, and participating in business resource groups. Show up authentically, listen just as much as you speak, and always follow up after events. That personal touch is what sets you apart.
Another point echoed by Henna Inam of InPower Coaching and supported by research from the Center for Creative Leadership is that women often build outstanding networks but hesitate to use them. We’re natural givers—but giving too much can leave us burnt out. The solution? Set healthy boundaries. Default to "yes" when it feels right, but give yourself permission to say "no" without guilt. Be specific when asking for support. Instead of vague requests like "help me find a job," ask for introductions, industry insights, or advice on a particular challenge.
Networking should be a daily habit, woven into your professional and personal life. Attend events outside your industry. Volunteer for cross-functional projects at work. Have lunch with someone outside your usual circle. Refresh your network periodically, and don’t let it grow stale.
Most importantly, embrace networking as a two-way street. Offer to help others, share opportunities, and be a connector, but also be comfortable asking for help yourself. Seek out mentors, leverage women’s associations, and remember, expanding your network increases possibilities not just for you, but for everyone in your community.
Thank you for tuning in today. Make sure to subscribe to The Woman’s Career Podcast for more empowerment, inspiration, and actionable advice every week. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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