This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.
Welcome to The Woman's Career Podcast—your space for real talk about building a thriving professional life. Today we’re diving straight into what often feels like the most mysterious piece of the career puzzle: networking. Whether you’re an introvert who’d rather curl up with a book than walk into a crowded mixer, or you’re an extrovert ready to dazzle a room full of strangers, this episode is packed with strategies to help you network with purpose—and power.
Let’s start with the heart of it: networking isn’t just about collecting business cards or adding LinkedIn connections. According to Deborah Gray, a professor of marketing at Central Michigan University, networking is about building real relationships—not just tallying contacts. Think of the power of shared activities. Joining boards, volunteering, or engaging in women’s business groups creates natural ways to connect with others who may bring different perspectives or open doors you never imagined.
Preparation is where confidence is built, especially if walking into a room of new people makes your stomach twist. Ellevate Network reminds us—own your story before you arrive. Craft a simple, authentic elevator pitch about who you are, what inspires you, and where you’re headed. For introverts, this preparation can be your anchor, letting you focus on connection instead of nerves. Jot down a few conversation starters—it can be as simple as asking what someone enjoys outside of work.
For extroverts, remember this: networking isn’t about being the loudest person in the room. It’s about listening, too. Ask thoughtful questions, and make space for quieter voices—you’ll not only learn more, you’ll also build trust and respect. The LI Center for Business and Professional Women reminds us that being authentic and genuine, showing up as yourself, creates lasting connections that matter.
Follow up is the unsung hero of great networking. Ellevate Network highlights that it’s not just about that first handshake or message—it’s about keeping in touch and being intentional. Drop a note with something personal you discussed, or update your contacts database and check in periodically. Don’t let your network grow stale; nurture it by staying connected, sharing news, even offering a simple congratulations or resource.
For women, especially, having a circle of women as your inner network can be transformative. Research highlighted by DDI World shows that the highest-achieving women often have a close inner circle of supportive female peers who understand their journey, uplift each other, and share opportunities. So, don’t be shy about reaching out to women-focused networks in your field. It’s a valuable source of mentorship, collaboration, and empowerment.
And if you’re worried about coming across as transactional, reframe networking as connecting. The team at Embrace Change NYC encourages us to lead with generosity—ask how you can help, make introductions, and focus on building community, not just leveraging it for personal gain. Networking is about making the pie bigger, so we all rise.
Wherever you are on the introvert-extrovert spectrum, remember: your unique style is your strength. Be intentional, be authentic, be bold—because growing your network is about growing your career, and your confidence.
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