Networking is a vital skill for any leader, but it can be challenging if you're an introvert who prefers deep conversations over small talk. However, being introverted doesn't mean you can't network effectively. You just need to find your own style and leverage your strengths. Here are some tips to help you network as an introverted leader.
You don't have to attend every event or connect with everyone you meet. Instead, focus on finding the right opportunities and people who share your values and goals. Quality networking is about building meaningful relationships, not collecting business cards. Choose events that align with your interests and passions, and limit the number of people you talk to. This way, you can avoid feeling overwhelmed and drained, and have more time and energy to follow up with your contacts.
I don’t attend everything I’m invited to, I don’t have the time or I don’t feel there’s a synergy. It’s powerful to say no, and once you learn which opportunities you wish to pursue- saying yes becomes a lot easier. Once at an event, don’t feel the need to collect everyone’s business card. Speak to a handful of people who you have subsequently connected with and have found something in common. Connect further on LinkedIn (or your chosen platform) and carry on the conversation. The follow up is crucial in nurturing the relationship and potential opportunity.
One of the advantages of being an introvert is that you're good at planning and researching. Use these skills to prepare for networking events and conversations. Find out who will be attending, what their backgrounds and interests are, and what topics you can discuss. Prepare some questions and stories that can spark a conversation and show your expertise and personality. Practice your introduction and elevator pitch, and rehearse them with a friend or a coach. This will help you feel more confident and comfortable when you network.
Online networking can be a great option for introverted leaders, as it allows you to communicate at your own pace and avoid the noise and distractions of live events. You can use platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or blogs to showcase your thought leadership, share your insights and opinions, and engage with your target audience. You can also join online communities and groups that are relevant to your industry, niche, or interests, and participate in discussions and webinars. Online networking can help you build your reputation and credibility, and create opportunities for offline connections.
Online networking can be both positive and negative for introverts. Positive in allowing you to sit and listen, asking questions either on the chat facility or by turning your mic back on and raising your hand - all at your pace. However it’s worth noting that some online events when in Break Out rooms do not work well for introverts. An extrovert may command the few minutes you have and then you don’t get a chance to speak or ask questions. Once back in the main screen you may not feel confident sharing what was discussed, especially if you didn’t say anything. Use the online event to gage the types of people in that network. Are they like-minded? Same or different sector? Friendly? Referral driven? Have you been made welcome?
Networking can be easier and more enjoyable if you have a partner or a mentor who can support you and introduce you to others. Find someone who is more extroverted, experienced, or well-connected than you, and who understands your goals and challenges. You can ask them to accompany you to events, or to refer you to people they know. Having a partner or a mentor can help you overcome your shyness, expand your network, and learn from their skills and strategies.
The most important tip for networking as an introverted leader is to be yourself and follow up. Don't try to pretend to be someone you're not, or to force yourself to act like an extrovert. Instead, embrace your authenticity and uniqueness, and show genuine interest and curiosity in others. Listen actively, ask open-ended questions, and share your insights and values. After the event, follow up with the people you met, and express your appreciation and interest. Keep in touch with them, and offer your help or advice if possible. This will help you build trust and rapport, and grow your network organically.