How I network online as an introvert

I've always felt a little overwhelmed with the concept of networking.

It's not natural to me to approach randoms, I hate small talk with a passion and tend to be over-stimulated by crowded environments.

Slowly, over time, I've developed my own strategies to start putting myself out there whilst remaining authentic to who I am and my personal values.

I wrote about my in-person networking strategies here ,

But, especially in this post-pandemic world of ours, online networking is more accessible than ever, enabling introverts to create genuine connections whilst playing to their strengths and maintaining personal boundaries.

Online networking has the potential to favour introverts, as it removes the overstimulating environment and opens up the possibility of communicating in writing, which tends to be an introvert strength.

It can, however, still feel overwhelming.

And knowing how, and where, to start can be a mystery.

Don't worry, though: I got you!

Here is your blueprint to networking online, communicating effectively and without overwhelm:

1. Pick your platform(s)

The first decision you need to make when thinking about starting to network online is to pick your platform(s).

It may better to choose just one initially; I started here on LinkedIn but I know others who've leveraged Facebook groups, or used virtual Meetup sessions.

Opt for the platform that feels most comfortable for you.

I actually started inadvertently, when I was working on Google's #IAmRemarkable initiative and, after each Train-the-Trainer session, delegates started sending me LinkedIn connection requests. Sometimes they'd also DM me, either to thank me or ask a question and a conversation would authentically unfold.

Even a couple of years after leaving the initiative, the networks I built then have remained strong, and also led to various opportunities; it really is who you know, not what you know. When we catch up we explore ways we can help, and add value, to each other and also proactively connect each other with others in our own networks. It's win-win.

During the Train-the-Trainer sessions I'd been encouraging delegates to connect with each other for support on their facilitator journeys; I'd demonstrate using myself and inadvertently this led to people reaching out to me.

You may be able to do something similar if sending someone a blind connection request initially feels too hard for you.

2. Be strategic - and selective

It can help to have a goal in mind: do you want to meet people in your industry? Connect with potential clients? Find a mentor?

You can then preserve your energy, and avoid overwhelm, by being strategic with any virtual events you attend, or how much time you're investing in virtual conversations - even the written kind.

Only devote time to the events and conversations that are going to move the needle for you; sending numerous DMs to see what sticks is unlikely to work for an introvert.

If you're attending a virtual event, play to your strengths and do some research on the event and its attendees in advance, if you can; you can then decide who you'd like to focus on getting to know and be armed with some information about them to use as conversation topics.

Explore your comfort zone by trying out different methods, but be sure to set time limits for online networking and safeguard time to recharge.

3. Build a personal brand

If, like me, you struggle to initiate conversation, or cold-DM/ email anyone, one of the best ways to get others to come to YOU is to build your own personal brand.

To do this on LinkedIn, optimise your profile by making it clear who you are and what you do. Pay attention to the following areas of your profile:

• Cover Image (include who you serve and a call to action like 'DM me')
• Profile picture (clear and conveying how you'd like to be perceived)
• Headline (what you do/ problem you solve/ who you serve)
• Bio (use first person and let your personality shine through)
• Recommendations/ endorsements

If you opt to have a creator account you can also add a link to your website above your headline and have a 'Featured' section where you can add links to any offers or subscriptions you have, as well as showcase your best content.

Aim to post content regularly (doesn't have to be every day) at the same time, reply to all your comments and spend a little time every day browsing your timeline and posts relating to your area so that you can leave meaningful comments that entertain or add value.

Don't be afraid to tell people what you're doing, or what you've achieved; I've started posting a testimonial every Sunday, for example.

If you do this consistently you'll start to be noticed by others and, trust me, they'll send you connection requests and initiate DMing you. You can then get curious about them, and bond over meaningful conversation.

If you're feeling brave enough, you can also DM anyone who comments on your content to thank them and initiate conversation through getting curious.

I found that people reaching out to me really increased once I started this newsletter, as it enabled people to get more value from my content.

The principle is the same on other platforms too: identify who you are, who you're helping and your values and then consistently produce content and engage.

I've recently added Threads to my platforms and just leaning into being my full self there is enabling authentic connections to be formed.

4. Challenge your mindset

Networking can feel uncomfortable; it's not unusual for introverts to feel resistance around the idea of doing it to get something out of people, or asking others for anything.

Shifting your perspective can change everything:

Ask yourself who you can help, and how?

And take it from there.

If someone does DM you, ask them this question: how can I help you?

Be a connector and others reciprocate: for those already in your networks, look out for opportunities to connect them with others who may be of interest, or help. They will almost certainly start doing the same for you and your network will grow organically.

5. Play to your strengths

Use your strengths to your advantage: communicate in writing when you can, and when you can't meet with new people 1:1 via a virtual call, or over a coffee.

Lean into getting curious, observing and listening: introverts were built to form meaningful connections!

Written interactions enable you to have time to process before responding, but if you are having a verbal conversation, be direct and say, "I'm just taking some time to process." People are more understanding than you think!

And if something doesn't feel right, or is draining you, listen to your intuition and stop giving it your time and attention.

I personally tend to focus on nourishing a small number of meaningful connections and as these organically develop, they tend to lead to new connections and opportunities; this aligns with my values and what feels authentic to me.

As a recovering people-pleaser, I've learnt to build, and enforce, boundaries that safeguard my energy. For example, I'll only agree to have a call at a time that works for me and if a conversation becomes too full-on or demanding, I'll be clear about what's in my capacity and the terms within which I can interact and reciprocate.

Ultimately, the main thing is to treat networking as an experiment, and find what works for YOU: the sweet spot where you feel in alignment and not drained.

You got this!

Please feel free to share this newsletter with anyone it may help ??

Much love,

Sam

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P.S.?Ways I can help you:

1. Download my resources specially designed to help introverts overcome their biggest struggles?here . Some of them are FREE - and include networking!
2. Book time with me (limited offer)?here .
3. Sign up for my email newsletter for monthly inspiration and quarterly freebies?here .
4. Connect with me on LinkedIn?here ?or via my website?here .
5. Get inspiration on how to escape the 9-5 and build passive income?here .

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About Me

I'm Sam ? and I'm on a mission to change the workplace bias towards extroversion, to achieve greater, intersectional, inclusivity for introverts.

As well as help high achieving introverts to thrive without changing who they are.

Companies:

I offer consulting, training and coaching for DEI professionals, leaders/ managers and those involved in hiring.

I am also a keynote speaker.

Introverts:

I can help you achieve your professional goals, feel confident in your introversion and be able to step into your power OR I can help you escape the 9-5 and achieve optimal wellbeing through financial freedom.

DM me for more information!