If you’re looking for a new job, you’ll often be advised to start networking. And as an entrepreneur, networking skills are just as essential.

Networking is a skill you can learn. Some people find it more difficult than others, but often the biggest hurdle is how you think about networking. Many introverts believe they’re not good at networking simply because they’re introverted.
Introverts generally need more time alone to recharge, but that doesn’t mean they’re unable to connect with others. Introverts also seek contact and connection—only the frequency and the way they do so often differs from extroverts.

Here are some networking tips specifically for introverts. Not an introvert, but still find networking difficult? You might find some of these tips helpful too.

1. Define your goal

If something drains your energy—like networking, for example—it’s important to be clear about why you’re doing it. Do you want to find a new job, grow your number of assignments, or gain more insight into a specific industry or role? When you know what you’re doing it for, it becomes easier to find the motivation.

2. Change your view of networking

If you see networking as attending social events and “selling yourself” (which, especially in times like COVID, isn’t even always possible), it doesn’t sound very appealing. But once you start seeing it as exploring how you can be of value to someone else, it takes on a whole new meaning. You have something to offer, and someone out there is looking for exactly your talents. See it as matching supply with demand.
Still figuring out what your next career move should be? People often enjoy talking about their work and helping others, so make use of that openness.

3. Use LinkedIn

LinkedIn is an excellent tool for mapping out and expanding your network. Once you have a clear idea of whom you’d like to connect with, LinkedIn makes it easy to find those people. Suppose you want to learn more about the work of a web designer. LinkedIn allows you to search by job title. This way, you can see whether you already know someone in that profession, or if you know someone who’s connected to them. In the latter case, you can ask your contact to introduce you to the web designer in their network. The worst that can happen is that they say no.

You can also take the initiative by sending this person a LinkedIn connection request yourself. Always include a personal message. If people don’t know you, they’re unlikely to accept a generic invitation.

4. Start in your own familiar environment

Not very familiar with networking yet? Start with the people you already know and feel comfortable with. Ask if they’re open to having a conversation and giving you some feedback. The more often you have these kinds of talks, the easier it becomes. This could be a good friend, someone from your yoga class, a dad you know from the schoolyard, or former colleagues. There are always people willing to make time for you. Just make sure you clearly communicate your goal for the conversation beforehand.

5. Divide your energy

Because introverts need more time to themselves, it’s important to pace yourself. Make sure not to schedule too many meetings or events back to back. By pacing things well, you create space to be on your own and recharge your energy. You can’t present yourself effectively if you’re running low on energy.

6. Let go of the idea of selling yourself

It’s better to let go of the idea that you need to sell yourself. The problem is that it makes you try too hard, and your conversation partner likely won’t appreciate it. After all, do you enjoy talking to someone who’s clearly trying to sell themselves? It’s much more effective to explore how you might be of value to the other person. And there’s no need to boast—simply knowing what you can and can’t do is enough. That way, you come across as self-aware and authentic.

7. Ask questions

Not sure how to get started? Then make sure you’ve prepared a few questions in advance. Ideally, you’ve already done some research on your conversation partner—you know what they do and where they work. You can ask questions about the company and how they got to where they are. At some point, there will naturally be a moment where you get the chance to share something about yourself.

These are seven tips for introverts about networking.

Would you prefer personal guidance? Then feel free to schedule an introductory meeting with one of our coaches.