What do you do if you're an introverted program manager struggling with networking?

Online platforms for example LinkedIn has provided me with an opportunity to extend my professional network and showcase my ideas. By posting updates, joining relevant groups, and contributing insightful comments to others' posts, I have been able to engage with professionals from all corners of my industry. LinkedIn also enabled me to connect with colleagues and other professionals around the world who share my interests, giving me unprecedented exposure to a range of perspectives and experiences. Embracing such online platforms could be an effective way to expand your professional development and bolster ones career.

As an introverted program manager myself, I understand the challenges that come with networking. My approach focuses on leveraging my strengths: preparation and listening. Before any networking event, I prepare by researching attendees and potential discussion topics. This preparation boosts my confidence and ensures meaningful conversations. At the event, I focus on listening actively, which not only alleviates some of the pressure to speak but also helps in building deeper connections. Additionally, I prefer one-on-one interactions or small groups where I can have more in-depth discussions. Remember, networking is not about meeting as many people as possible; it's about making quality connections that can be nurtured over time.

Professional networking through online platforms offers a treasure trove of benefits! ?? It connects you with industry leaders and peers, expanding your knowledge and opening doors to new opportunities. ?? By engaging with diverse professionals, you can gain fresh insights and innovative ideas, enhancing your creativity and problem-solving skills. ???? Online networking also fosters collaborations that can lead to exciting projects and career advancements. ?? Moreover, it provides a platform to showcase your expertise and build your personal brand, making you more visible to potential employers and clients. ??? In this digital age, leveraging online networks is crucial for staying ahead and thriving in your professional journey. ????

Introverted Managers are also known for their great leadership and have potential/capacity to influence others. Though they are not outspoken but known for having strong networking skill. Many known leaders are introverted.

As an introverted program manager, mastering small talk is a vital skill for effective networking, despite it not being my natural forte. I've found that preparation is key. Before any event, I prepare a few open-ended questions related to project management, such as "What project management challenges are you currently facing?" or "How do you stay updated with the latest project management trends?" This strategy helps initiate conversations without the stress of spontaneous dialogue. I focus on cultivating genuine curiosity about the experiences of others and practice active listening. This approach not only makes conversations easier for me but also tends to lead to more meaningful discussions.

Develop small talk tactics to navigate social interactions comfortably. Prepare a few conversation starters or topics related to telecoms industry trends, recent news, or common interests to initiate conversations with new acquaintances. Practice active listening and ask open-ended questions to encourage dialogue and establish rapport with others.

While small talk is natural behaviour fir extroverts, it is an important learning for introverts. Small talk helps break the ice and also develop more personal bonding. Something that I have not been very comfortable with initially, I was able to learn this in roles that required key stakeholder management. Steering committee meetings, board meetings and one on one with CxOs are settings where one interacts with new stakeholders from different organizations. Apart from being icebreakers, small talk at the start of any engagement helps identify common interests which in turn can be used to make relevant references when communicating important messages.

Through cross-functional communication, I have found great success in expanding my network at work. By showing interest in the work and goals of individuals in different departments and offering my support and resources, I have been able to build strong relationships across teams. Collaborating on projects and attending interdepartmental meetings have also allowed me to broaden my perspective and connect with colleagues from a variety of backgrounds. As a result, I have established a network of professionals whom I trust.

Leverage your position as a senior leader in telecoms to facilitate networking opportunities. Attend industry conferences, seminars, and networking events where your presence is valued, allowing you to connect with industry professionals in a more structured setting. Use your expertise and insights to contribute meaningfully to discussions and build credibility among peers.

As an introverted program manager grappling with networking, finding your comfort zone is crucial. Large events may feel daunting, but one-on-one meetings offer a golden opportunity. Picture this: instead of navigating a sea of faces, you're sipping coffee with a colleague, talking about shared interests. This intimate setting fosters deeper connections, steering your networking journey toward genuine, meaningful relationships. As an introverted program manager, embrace the power of the personal touch and build your network your way!

Focus on building deeper connections through one-on-one meetings with individuals you admire or wish to collaborate with. Schedule informal coffee meetings or virtual chats to discuss shared interests, exchange ideas, and explore potential partnership opportunities. These intimate interactions provide a conducive environment for meaningful networking without the pressure of large social gatherings.

Being an introvert myself, I found that focusing on my passion to help and serve others provided 'safe' opportunities to network. Especially working on or championing causes that require your area of expertise will facilitate networking skills with others. Volunteering enables one, -especially those who have made it to the role of a manger- to continue with a professional focus on their priority to serve. The responsibility of representing one's organization and working on themes and topics provides the required structure and comfort level for speaking and interacting with others.

Volunteer for leadership roles or committee positions within industry organizations or professional associations related to telecoms. By actively participating in volunteer activities, you can showcase your skills, expertise, and dedication while expanding your network and building relationships with like-minded individuals who share your interests and goals.

Recognize the importance of self-care and recharge regularly to manage social energy as an introverted program manager. Allocate time for introspection and self-reflection to understand your networking preferences and comfort levels. Balance networking activities with periods of solitude to recharge and rejuvenate, ensuring you maintain a healthy balance between professional engagement and personal well-being.

Introverted people are generally very thoughtful, creative thinkers, can ideate easily, and very impactful. This suits them to draw people easily towards them and make an impact in a very short time. Once strong connections are made, leveraging their strengths, they should keep regular contacts.

This is not an issue that I have to grapple with myself, but as a general rule anytime you are facing a challenge look at what are the specific parts that you are struggling with and make a plan to overcome them individually. E.g. if you are wanting to go to a networking event plan to go with a more extroverted colleague, and focus on the outcome you are wanting to achieve by being there. Get them to be the one to initiate conversations but then choose to be bold by fully participating in those conversations. Make a plan for each new situation and then work the plan.

Set realistic goals for networking, such as connecting with a certain number of people or attending a certain number of events per month. Join networking groups or organizations that cater to introverts or offer networking opportunities in a more relaxed setting. Practice active listening and focus on building genuine connections with others rather than trying to network for the sake of it.

As an introvert, some practices that have helped me are: - Creating a structure for information that need to be obtained and delivered to specific people in meetings - this then makes the communication a task which is easier to execute - The learning that that there are a number of other introverts even at senior levels helps bring the right perspective - Recognizing that people at the table share objectives and not to criticize enables a positive perspective - Leveraging an extroverted team member or colleague or boss to communicate part of the message reduces required talk time while still achieving the objective.

In addition to these strategies, consider seeking support from mentors or coaches who can provide guidance and encouragement as you navigate networking challenges. Practice self-compassion and embrace your introverted qualities as strengths that contribute to your unique leadership style. Remember that effective networking is not solely about quantity but the quality of connections you cultivate over time. Focus on building genuine relationships built on trust, mutual respect, and shared values to foster long-term professional success in the telecoms industry.