This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.
Welcome to The Woman’s Career Podcast. Today, we’re talking about networking—not as a buzzword, but as a tool that unlocks possibility, sponsorship, and support for women at every career stage. Whether networking excites you or fills you with dread, especially if you tend to be more introverted, today’s episode will give you a roadmap to connect authentically and effectively.
Networking isn’t just about collecting business cards or having the most LinkedIn connections. Professor Deborah Gray from Central Michigan University points out that networking is about building relationships—building bridges, not just pipelines. For women especially, effective networking means leveraging not just professional spaces, but also spaces where real connection and understanding can thrive.
Let’s get right to it: effective networking starts with clarity. Know your strengths, expertise, and what you’re aiming for. Craft a short elevator pitch about who you are and what you offer—this arms you with confidence and opens conversations whether you’re at a formal women’s leadership event or chatting in the coffee line. If introductions make you nervous, having a prepared pitch makes the process feel less daunting.
For introverts, networking doesn’t have to mean working a room. You can start small: reach out to a new colleague, volunteer for a new project, or schedule a one-on-one coffee with someone you admire. Dana Theus, executive coach, reminds us that specificity is your superpower. Instead of vaguely asking, “Can you help me?” consider, “Could you introduce me to someone in your industry?” or “Would you be willing to share how you broke into your field?” Small, specific requests lead to powerful connections and feel less overwhelming.
Extroverts, you naturally thrive in group settings, but be mindful to deepen conversations beyond surface-level chats. Follow up after every networking encounter, whether by message, call, or connecting on LinkedIn. The Center for Creative Leadership highlights that the most successful women nurture their networks by providing help before asking for it and maintaining regular, genuine contact.
Both introverts and extroverts benefit from diverse networks. According to research published in the Academy of Management Journal, women who build high-status connections, often through introductions from mutual contacts or participation in shared-interest groups, are more likely to access new opportunities for advancement. For women leaders, it’s especially valuable to create an inner circle with a few trusted women who offer advice, support, and connections.
Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Women network differently from men, and that is a strength. Tap into women’s groups, mentorship circles, and even social gatherings. Be bold enough to initiate introductions, and don’t be afraid to support others in your network.
The key is to keep your network active—don’t let it grow stale or transactional. Refresh your connections regularly and focus on building trust. If you face rejection or setbacks, reframe it as direction, not failure. As you grow, mentor others and pay it forward, but remember to set boundaries to avoid burnout.
Thank you for being part of The Woman’s Career Podcast community. If these tips resonated, subscribe for more episodes dedicated to your empowerment and professional growth. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease.ai.
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