Networking Remix: Introverts, Extroverts, and Expanding the Pie

This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.

Welcome to The Woman’s Career Podcast. Today, we’re talking about networking—how to do it effectively, whether you’re an introvert who dreads those crowded conference rooms or an extrovert who lights up at every event. We’re going to focus on the strategies that help you build impactful connections, grow your career, and empower the women around you.

Networking isn’t about collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections just for the sake of having them. According to the Center for Creative Leadership, it starts with understanding the structure of your network: who’s in it, what resources they offer, and what you need to move forward. Erica Dhawan, leadership expert and author, encourages women to think of networking as building a support team. That might mean mentors who guide you, sponsors who speak your name in the rooms you aren’t in, or peers who offer different perspectives.

Let’s get real—networking can be tough, especially if the traditional model feels unnatural. Dana Theus, an executive coach, points out that women are often reluctant to use their networks for professional gain, confusing authenticity with self-sacrifice. But let me challenge you: advocating for your own growth is not selfish. It’s about showing up with honesty and intention, trusting your connections, and making specific asks instead of vague ones. Instead of saying, “Do you know of any jobs?” ask, “Can you introduce me to someone in your field for insights?”

If you’re an introvert, it can help to reframe networking as simply having a conversation—start by revisiting your existing network. Maybe you’ve lost touch with a former colleague who remembers your journey. Reconnect, share what you’ve been up to, and offer value: a relevant article, support for their new venture, or just a check-in. Formal events can be overwhelming, so consider reaching out for one-on-one chats or joining smaller women’s groups like the Society of Women Engineers or WITI, which create supportive environments to nurture authentic relationships.

Extroverts, your strength is connecting with diverse groups, but be mindful of listening as much as speaking. Follow up after those high-energy events. According to CCWomen, a simple LinkedIn message or a virtual coffee invitation turns a passing meeting into a lasting relationship. Consistency and genuine interest are what transform contacts into allies.

Whether you’re outgoing or reserved, remember that effective networking is layered. It’s about giving—sharing opportunities, introductions, or encouragement—but it’s also about boundaries. InPower Coaching’s Dana Theus advises that giving should be authentic, not self-sacrificing.

Another empowering shift: view networking as expanding the pie for everyone, not just grabbing a slice for yourself. Camille Dundas from EmbraceChange suggests that asking how you can help someone else, or who you can introduce them to, builds real community and makes the process more authentic—and less transactional.

And when you do hit a wall or someone says no, celebrate that as a step toward clarity. Each response helps guide you to the right people and opportunities.

Thank you for tuning in to The Woman’s Career Podcast. If today’s episode sparked ideas for your own networking journey, subscribe and share this episode with your network. Together, we lift as we climb.

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