This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.

Welcome to The Woman’s Career Podcast. Today we’re diving straight into one of the most pivotal skills for professional growth: networking effectively, and how you can master it no matter where you sit on the introvert-extrovert spectrum. This is about building authentic connections that support your ambitions, champion your voice, and help you grow alongside a community of women who are just as dedicated as you are.

Let’s bust a myth right upfront: networking isn’t a shallow numbers game or about collecting business cards you’ll never use. Networking is about building bridges, finding mentors, and amplifying your impact by forging sincere relationships—especially with other women who understand your professional journey. According to the Center for Creative Leadership, the most powerful networks are built on honesty, mutual support, and real conversations. Give yourself permission to show up as you are.

Now, if you’re an introvert, this topic can bring a mix of curiosity and dread. Large events may leave you exhausted rather than energized. Practical strategies can help you lean into your strengths. Start by shifting your focus from quantity to quality. Set a personal intention—maybe you aim to have just three meaningful conversations at your next event, rather than speaking with everyone in the room. Leading Lady Coaching suggests even starting conversations online before meeting in person. Engaging with someone’s LinkedIn post or joining an industry-specific group on platforms like SHEROES or HerKey can make in-person interactions feel more natural and less draining.

Hosting your own gathering—say, a mastermind lunch with women you admire—can be far less taxing and much more impactful. You control the format, invite energy-givers, and create an environment where deep discussions flourish. Digital communities are also great for introverts; participating in LinkedIn groups or industry forums lets you contribute at your own pace, sharing insights and offering support without pressure.

For the extroverts, your energy for conversation and your ability to mingle are powerful networking assets. But even you can fall into the trap of having many superficial contacts instead of meaningful relationships. Take that energy and channel it into being a connector. Introduce people with similar interests, bring women together at events, and don’t forget the follow-up. According to DDI, a simple, personalized note to a senior leader or a new acquaintance can turn a chance meeting into a transformative relationship.

Regardless of personality, networking should be embedded in your regular routine. The Harvard Business Review highlights that women often have less access to the informal networks that drive career advancement, so we need to be intentional. That might mean joining a women-focused professional community, like the Glow and Lovely Careers platform, or scheduling regular one-on-one catch-ups even during busy weeks.

Don’t limit your network to people like you. Mindtools suggests actively seeking out connections in other industries or departments. A diverse network brings fresh ideas and opportunities you might never expect. And always bring your authentic self: be generous with your support, celebrate successes, and offer help where you can.

Let’s review some action steps: set clear, achievable goals for networking activities, prioritize relationship quality over quantity, diversify your connections, and make consistency your ally. No matter if you’re thriving at the center of the room or listening carefully in a corner, you already have what it takes to build the connections that will lift you higher and help you navigate every stage of your career.

Thanks for tuning in to The Woman’s Career Podcast. Don’t forget to subscribe for more empowering episodes. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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