This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.

Welcome back to The Woman’s Career Podcast. Today we’re diving straight into something that can change your entire career trajectory: how to network effectively as a woman, whether you’re an introvert who loves deep one-on-one conversations or an extrovert who comes alive in a crowded room.

Let’s start with why networking matters so much for women. MindTools points out that strategic networking is one of the fastest ways to access promotions, mentorship, sponsorship, and those hidden opportunities that often circulate in informal, male-dominated networks. When we build strong, diverse connections, we aren’t just collecting business cards, we’re building power, visibility, and support.

Now, if you’re an introvert, traditional networking advice might sound like a nightmare. Leading Lady Coaching talks about flipping the script: instead of trying to meet everyone, focus on just two or three meaningful conversations at any event. Give yourself permission to skip “working the room” and choose depth over volume. You might walk away with one genuine connection who remembers you, instead of twenty people who don’t.

Introverts also tend to shine in writing. Use that to your advantage. Comment thoughtfully on LinkedIn posts, send warm follow-up emails, or share a helpful article with a short note about why you thought of that person. Many women leaders report that some of their strongest professional relationships started with a simple message or a thoughtful comment online. This is networking that respects your energy.

If you’re more extroverted, your superpower is energy and presence. Use events, conferences, and meetups as your playground, but be intentional. Women As One encourages attending conferences and engaging with professional societies because they’re concentrated hubs of opportunity. Before you walk in, set a clear goal: maybe meet three people in senior roles, or connect with two women in a different department or industry. Your challenge is not meeting people, it’s focusing on the right people and then following up so those conversations turn into real relationships.

For both introverts and extroverts, preparation is a secret weapon. The Customer Contact Women network suggests crafting a short, clear introduction that makes it easy for others to understand who you are and what you care about. Think: your role, the impact you want to have, and what you’re curious about right now. That way, when someone asks, “So, what do you do?” you aren’t scrambling—you’re inviting a real conversation.

Women-focused communities are especially powerful. Research from the Kellogg School of Management, shared by HiHello, found that women who cultivate strong women-centric networks actually see better career outcomes than those who rely mainly on mixed-gender networks. Joining a women’s professional association, an internal women’s network at your company, or a local women-in-tech or women-in-finance group can give you mentors, sponsors, and peers who truly understand your experience.

No matter your personality, the magic is in the follow-up. Send a quick LinkedIn note after you meet someone. Suggest a 20‑minute virtual coffee. Share a win or an article that connects to your conversation. Networking is not a one-time moment; it is a relationship you nurture over time.

As you think about your next week, choose one small step: message a former colleague, comment thoughtfully on a leader’s post you admire, or sign up for one women-focused event or community. Networking doesn’t have to be loud, fake, or exhausting. It can look like you, feel like you, and still be incredibly powerful.

Thank you for tuning in to The Woman’s Career Podcast. If this episode was helpful, make sure you subscribe so you don’t miss what’s coming next. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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