Network Like Yourself: Why Your Personality Is Your Professional Superpower

0:00This is Mike Voilow of Lexicon Valley. And I'm Bob Garfield. Are you one of those people who sometimes uses words? Do you communicate or acquire information with, you know, language? Hey! Us too! So, join us on Lexicon Valley to true over the history, culture, and many mysteries of English. Plus, some ice cracks. Find us on one of those apps where people listen to podcasts. Hi, I'm Alicia, and I'm Stacey, and we make trashy divorces. Everybody's favorite good podcast about bad relationships. Looking for something true crimey without the gore or the body count? We've been churning out funny, feisty, feminist episodes since 2019. So if you're looking to put some scandalous stories told well into your ears this summer, check out trashy divorces. Wherever you listen to podcasts, trust us, we've covered someone you love, or someone you love to hate. Welcome to the Women's Career Podcast.

1:01I'm your host, and today we're talking about something that can absolutely transform your career, networking. Whether you're an introvert who breaks out in hives at the thought of a crowded room, or an extrovert who thrives on meeting new people, this episode is then asking the questions you know, what are you able to do on the right people, and what are you using them as a whole? Networking isn't about collecting business cards or forcing yourself into uncomfortable situations. According to leading career coaches, networking is about building genuine relationships based on mutual support and trust. It's about connecting with people who understand your industry, your challenges, and your goals. Now, if you're introverted, I want you to know that traditional networking advice might not work for you, and that's completely okay. Research on smart networking for introverted women reveals that quality always beats quantity. Instead of trying to meet 50 people at one event, focus on having three meaningful conversations. Start building relationships online before meeting in person. Comment thoughtfully on someone's LinkedIn post or Facebook content.

2:03Share valuable resources. When you eventually meet faced face, it feels natural instead of exhausting. Some of the strongest professional relationships can start with a thoughtful email or a genuine question about someone's work. Here's another strategy that works beautifully for introverts. Host your own gatherings. When you control the environment and guest list, networking becomes so much more comfortable. Imagine organizing quarterly lunch meetings for six to eight women entrepreneurs in complimentary businesses, or virtual coffee chats with potential collaborators. You're in charge, and that changes everything. For our extroverted listeners, your superpower is connecting people and building momentum quickly. Lean into attending industry specific events and conferences, where you can meet professionals who share your interests. Platforms like LinkedIn are made for you. Update your profile to reflect your skills and goals, regularly post about your industry, engage with others' content, and don't hesitate to send personalized connection requests. Join industry-specific groups and online communities designed for women, like Sheros or Herkey.

3:07Spaces offer webinars, workshops, and events that bring together women from a house industries. But here's what works for everyone, regardless of your personality type. Follow up. Attending an event is just the beginning. Send a message afterward, suggest a virtual coffee, share relevant articles or resources with your connections. Follow the principle of offering help before asking for favors. When you see a job posting or opportunity that could help someone in your network, share it. Celebrate their wins. Build a reputation as someone who's engaged and genuinely helpful. One more thing that matters for all of us. Be authentic. People can sense when you're being in authentic. Share your story, your mission, and your values with pride. Build your network around people who align with who you actually are. Thank you so much for tuning into the Women's Career Podcast. Please subscribe so you never miss an episode about building the career you deserve. This has been a QuietClease Production. For more, check out QuietPlease.ai.