This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.
Welcome to The Woman’s Career Podcast. Today, we dive straight into the heartbeat of career advancement: networking effectively. Whether you’re scaling the corporate ladder in New York, launching your own business in Chicago, or making career moves in tech like so many trailblazers at organizations such as WITI — Workforce, Innovation, Trust, and Influence — this conversation is for you. Networking is not just a buzzword; it’s the connective tissue that links women to opportunity, influence, and the advocates who can help us rise.
As women, we often hear that networking is crucial, but the unspoken reality is that the process can feel daunting — especially if you’re more on the introverted side or if, like so many, you worry about coming across as inauthentic or transactional. Today, let’s make networking work for you, whatever your style, and transform it into a tool for genuine connection and mutual growth.
The foundation of effective networking is recognizing that it’s not about collecting business cards — it’s about building relationships. Deborah Gray, professor at Central Michigan University, highlights the importance of shared activities: join groups and board memberships, volunteer for new projects, or get involved with organizations like the Society of Women Engineers, where you can collaborate on initiatives that matter to you. Whether you’re an extrovert who thrives at large events or an introvert seeking meaningful one-on-one conversations, approach every interaction with curiosity and generosity. Instead of asking, “What can this person do for me?” try, “Who is this person, and how can we support each other?”
For introverts, networking doesn’t have to mean working the room at a massive conference. Start small. Send a thoughtful note to a senior leader or colleague on LinkedIn, expressing your interest in a project they’re leading. Ask for a brief coffee chat to learn more about their role or experience. According to the Center for Creative Leadership, clarity is key — be specific in your asks, whether you want advice, an introduction, or feedback. Remember, giving before you get sets the tone for a meaningful exchange.
Extroverts, while your natural comfort with larger gatherings is a strength, deepen those new connections by following up and offering support or resources. Being a connector — introducing people who may benefit from knowing each other — builds your reputation as a generous and powerful collaborator.
No matter your style, think of your network in terms of resources. Mentors and sponsors are vital — seek out those who can advocate for you, open doors, and provide guidance. If you’re further along in your career, pay it forward by mentoring or sponsoring others, especially women from underrepresented backgrounds.
Finally, remember: effective networking is about consistency. Regularly check in with contacts, share valuable insights, and create opportunities for others as well as yourself. Embrace rejection as redirection, not failure — as coach Dana Theus reminds us, every “no” brings you closer to the right “yes."
Thank you for tuning in to The Woman's Career Podcast. Don’t forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and remember — your next opportunity is just one authentic connection away. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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