?? Networking Like an Introvert

Note from Yann: ?? Hey readers! I’m Yann A?tBachir , every week, I share my practical guidance to help to grow in your career.

Today's article the 14th edition on Networking. I know from DM I received, many of my readers consider themselves as introvert and "hate" networking.

The worst being the in-person events/

In this article, I share the strategies I have developed for myself that made me like in-person events.

?? If you like this content, share it to your connections.

Introverts readers, let's talk about the dreaded N-word: Networking. ??

Worst: in-person professional events.???

I know, I know. The mere thought of entering a room full of strangers, making small talk, and trying to impress can send shivers down your spine. ??

But what if I told you your introversion could actually be your secret weapon in networking? ??

Let's bust some myths first. Introverts aren't shy or antisocial. They just hate small talk. It's superficial and lacks the depth they crave. Plus, their social batteries drain faster than a smartphone running Call of Duty. ??

Good news: You don't have to fake being an extrovert to network effectively. (Yes! Stop trying that! It doesn't work.) In fact, networking like an introvert works even better!

I don’t know if I am myself an introvert. But I can share some strategies I've learned to not just survive in-person networking events, but actually enjoy them.

? Note: I only share about in-person events here, if you are interested by online networking: let me know in the comments.

It is all about maximising introverts’ strengths, while keeping an eye on our limitations.?

Prep Is Your BFF ????

Introverts, listen up!

The first step in networking is to decide to attend an in-person event. Whether it's an invite in your mailbox, LinkedIn, or a Meet-up page, click on that registration link.

You broke through your fear by registering and marking the event in your calendar?

Bravo. ??

Now, before the big day, do your homework:

- Scan the attendee list like it's a treasure map ???

- Identify a few intriguing people to connect with ??

- Research their work and find common interests (no stalking!) ??

- Set clear, achievable goals (hint: quality over quantity) ??

Your mission isn't to collect 50 business cards. Aim for 2-3 meaningful conversations instead. One solid connection beats a dozen forgettable handshakes any day!

Muscle Your Conversation Arsenal ????? ?? ???

Forget the boring elevator pitch. Craft an intro that showcases the real you:

"Hi, I'm Sarah, a software engineer. My journey started when I accidentally crashed my dad's computer as a kid and had to figure out how to fix it. That spark of problem-solving ignited my love for tech."

See how that beats "I'm Sarah, Senior Software Engineer at Facebook"?

It gives people a hook to ask more questions. It gives shortcut for people to remember you.

Also, prepare some engaging questions related to the event theme:

- "What project are you working on that really excites you?"

- "What's been capturing your focus lately?"

- "Any interesting trends you're keeping an eye on?"

These show genuine interest and open doors to deeper conversations - your comfort zone!

?? Bonus: I can share privately my own questions bank, drop me a DM. Guarantee without the boring: "Have you been to many of these events before?"

Listen Like a Pro ??

Again, one area where introverts shine: the ability to listen and observe deeply.

When you really tune in, you'll pick up details others miss. Use these insights to ask thoughtful follow-ups or make unexpected connections.

Pro tip: Aim to talk only 20% of the time. People love feeling heard, and you'll leave a lasting impression.

Master the Graceful Exit ??

The mistake I observe the most from introverts in events: stay glued to the same group the whole event. ??

Don't get stuck in one conversation during the whole event.

Even if it is interesting, the event is not to have a deep conversation but to spark connections.?

When the connexion is done, practise the art of the graceful exit:

1. Express appreciation for the chat

2. Mention interest in continuing later

3. Exchange contact info

Try this:

"It's been great discussing AI in healthcare. I'd love to continue this conversation. Shall we connect on LinkedIn?"

Build Relationships, Not a Contact List ??

You're not collecting Pokémon cards here. ??

Focus on quality connections, not quantity.

And quality doesn't mean the highest on the ladder. ?? Look for people who aren't in the spotlight.

While everyone's clamouring to talk to the CEO, you could be building a valuable relationship with a peer from another department or industry. These connections often lead to more actionable insights and collaborations.

For example, if you're in marketing, chatting with someone from the product team could give you fresh ideas for your next campaign. Or if you're in tech, connecting with someone in finance might help you understand budget constraints better.?

A small network of strong and diverse connections is more valuable than a large network of acquaintances. Quality over quantity, always! ??

Manage Your Energy ??

Know your limits and plan accordingly. As an introvert that’s your weakness.

Schedule quiet time before and after events. Recharge.

During the event, don't be afraid to take short breaks. Step outside for some fresh air, or find a quiet spot to gather your thoughts.

These mini-recharge sessions can help you stay energized and engaged throughout the event.

Follow Up: Bring On Your Field ??

The real networking magic happens after the event. ?

Within few days, reach out to your new connections.

Reference specific conversation points and suggest continuing the chat over coffee.

The smaller set-up, one-one-one are where you thrive. You choose the playing field to your advantage.

Within a day or two of the event, reach out to the people you met. A simple email or LinkedIn message can do wonders. Reference something specific from your conversation to jog their memory and show you were paying attention.

For example:

"Hi Alex, it was great meeting you at the Tech Conference last week. I've been thinking more about your AI project and I came across this article that might be helpful. Would you be interested in grabbing coffee next week to discuss further?"

This kind of thoughtful follow-up can turn a brief encounter into a lasting professional relationship.

Practice Makes Progress ???♀?

Like any skill, networking gets easier with practice.

Start small - maybe a low-key industry meetup or a small workshop. As you get more comfortable, you can work your way up to larger events.

Everyone feels a bit awkward at networking events sometimes - even those extroverts who seem to float effortlessly from group to group.

The key is to keep showing up and play on your strengths.

Wrap-Up ??

Finally, and most importantly, be yourself.

Don't try to force yourself into an extroverted mold. Your quiet thoughtfulness, deep listening skills, and ability to form meaningful connections are valuable assets.

Networking isn't about becoming someone you're not. It's about leveraging your natural strengths to build professional relationships.

Play on your strengths, and manage your limitations. Embrace your introversion and let it shine!

Note from Yann: ?? Hey folks! Thanks for reading. This was the 14th edition of the Simple Leader's Playbook.

I'm curious to know if you try these and find these strategies useful.

As always, if you find this article useful, re-share so more people can get access to it.

See you next week.

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