For introverts, networking can mean something more profound than simply exchanging contact information with strangers.
Networking is all about building positive connections with others. There are several ways to do this, including attending networking events, connecting with new people on LinkedIn (or other suitable social media platforms), or utilizing a mutual connection.
For introverts, networking can mean something more profound than simply exchanging contact information with strangers. We may not feel comfortable with small talk, but we excel at maintaining in-depth conversations and cultivating meaningful relationships. Yes, we’re introverts — but that doesn’t mean we’re broken; we just do things differently.
Rather than imitating how others network, we can develop our own unique, introvert-friendly networking strategy. Believe it or not, networking doesn’t need to be as superficial as it seems. In fact, if you do it the right way, it’s not only a chance to gather new career connections, but it’s also an invaluable experience. Here are a few reasons why.
Why Introverts Should Embrace Networking
1. It gives you a new perspective on your job.
Networking isn’t just about seeking new job opportunities — it’s also a valuable way to step out of your comfort zone. No matter how competent you are at work, getting different viewpoints is essential to avoid bias.
For example, if you work in a technical team, chatting with coworkers in marketing or sales can provide subtle insights into customer needs you may have overlooked. Plus, speaking with experts in related fields can broaden your vision of your role.
2. You meet people who share your values.
If you feel isolated at work because no one seems to understand your ideas, meeting new people can help. There’s someone out there who shares your beliefs, even if you don’t always align perfectly. When someone understands your core values and capabilities, they’re more likely to introduce you to someone who could benefit your career, like a potential client, recruiter, employer, or simply another intriguing person.
3. Introverts take time to form relationships, so start networking early.
Unlike extroverts, introverts need more time to feel comfortable around someone new. But this shouldn’t stop you from networking; instead, it’s a good reason to build a strong career network before you actually need it.
Personally, I don’t feel comfortable asking for help until I’ve known someone for a while — usually at least six months. If you’re the same, it’s wise to start networking now to allow yourself time to build familiarity with new connections.
Now, the next question is: How do you network, especially if the idea feels daunting? Through trial and error, here’s what I’ve learned.
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5 Introvert-Friendly Networking Tips
1. Focus on quality over quantity.
In networking, it’s not about how many people you know but how many of them truly know you. As introverts, we need to accept that we may not have as many connections as extroverts, and that’s totally fine. Embrace your nature, and make the most of your thoughtfulness and sensitivity.
Try focusing on just one or two people who want to have a deeper conversation with you. Talking to everyone at an event will only exhaust you, though you may need a bit of small talk to find the right connections. Stay patient, and keep your goal in mind.
It’s also helpful to get to know at least one extrovert. They’re often generous with their connections and can introduce you to people who may help in your career down the road.
For example, I remember meeting an extrovert at a networking event. Even though we weren’t very close, he took the initiative to introduce me to a publisher’s rights manager, who later offered me a chance to work as a book translator. This turned out to be a huge opportunity, opening many doors in my career.
2. Help someone without expecting anything in return.
Helping someone (without compromising your boundaries) is one of the best ways to make a lasting impression. Here are a few ideas:
- Show your boss you’re a reliable employee who’s not only doing their best but also being proactive.
- Let coworkers know you’re willing to help them when needed.
- Answer professional questions on social media (when you’re comfortable).
- Show your network that you’re open to giving career advice on topics you know well.
In 2021, my city went into lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and I was unemployed. Finding a new job was difficult, but fortunately, a former coworker reached out to ask if I’d like to join his start-up as a remote worker. Although the pay wasn’t ideal, his offer helped me get through a personal financial crisis.
A few months ago, another former coworker from the publishing world gave me a boost. I wanted to write for the magazine where he worked, so I asked for his advice. He shared tips to improve my portfolio and resume, which helped me secure a job offer. Even though it was a modest achievement, it felt like a significant step toward my dream of becoming a journalist.
3. Build your personal brand on platforms that speak to you.
Building a personal brand can be intimidating, especially since it often puts you in the spotlight — something many introverts avoid. However, it’s actually one of the safest ways to build trust in your career because you have control over the entire process.
As introverts, interacting with a large group in a short period can feel overwhelming, especially when we’re trying to make a positive impression. Building a personal brand lets you reach a broad audience at once, rather than approaching people one by one.
You might feel imposter syndrome when sharing your ideas publicly. This is common for introverts since overthinking is often one of our traits. But hopefully, you’ll learn to quiet that inner voice of doubt and realize that what you share can be valuable to someone.
I’m still working on building my personal brand while learning new things along the way. To grow my LinkedIn network, I regularly share my achievements, such as articles I’ve written, books I’ve translated, or certifications I’ve earned. While I’m not widely known yet, these efforts have still led to job offers and writing gigs.
Here are some ideas to help you build your personal brand:
- Create a LinkedIn profile and keep it updated.
- Join a community (like Discord, Quora, or Facebook groups) and answer questions from other members.
- Build an online portfolio, like using GitHub if you’re in tech.
- Start a blog, contribute to a Medium publication, or write a newsletter.
4. Deepen your current connections.
One of our best traits as introverts is excelling in one-on-one connections. We’re skilled at delving deeply into topics, understanding different layers of ideas, and noticing details. Don’t let this gift go to waste. Leverage it by showing others you care — congratulate them on their achievements (big or small), check in on how they’re doing, or set aside time for a coffee chat.
Remember the book translator opportunity I mentioned earlier? I turned it into a full-time position as a Rights Executive while continuing to translate books. I’d made an effort to stay in touch with the Rights Manager who later became my boss — sending her birthday wishes, congratulating her on her accomplishments, and thanking her each time one of my books was published. Of course, delivering quality work is key, but nurturing the emotional side of a connection is just as important.
5. Leverage opportunities to stay in touch with others.
Opportunities to connect with people are everywhere — not just at networking events. For introverts, smaller gatherings often make for better networking than crowded events. Here are a few ways I keep in touch with people I meet, as you never know when paths might cross again.
- After a job interview, keep in touch with the HR staff or interviewer. Even if you don’t get the job, sending a thank-you note shows your appreciation and keeps the door open. They might know others who can help you or offer you a different position in the future.
- Before leaving a job, ask your former boss for a letter of recommendation.
- Stay connected with people you meet outside of work, like classmates from an art course — they could end up being valuable connections for your career.
Remember, networking doesn’t have to be as intimidating as it sounds. It’s just a tool to help you grow in your career. By leveraging your introvert strengths — like attentive listening and meaningful, one-on-one conversations — you can still network effectively, in a way that feels right for you. 
