{"id":25091,"date":"2024-06-03T10:23:16","date_gmt":"2024-06-03T00:23:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/explorecareers.com.au\/?p=25091"},"modified":"2024-06-07T11:52:44","modified_gmt":"2024-06-07T01:52:44","slug":"networking-strategies-for-introverts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/explorecareers.com.au\/networking-strategies-for-introverts\/","title":{"rendered":"Effective Networking Strategies for Introverts"},"content":{"rendered":"

While it can sound a little scary for us introverts, there are a bunch of ways to network that won\u2019t take you too far outside your comfort zone. If you\u2019re looking to build your social skills and professional connections, all while kickstarting your dream career, read on! We\u2019ve got a comprehensive guide to getting you started.<\/p>\n

Is Networking Actually That Important?<\/h2>\n

In one word: yes. In multiple words, networking is the best way to gain insider insights into your dream industry and form relationships that will serve you for the rest of your career!<\/p>\n

Our best tip is to start as soon as you can. The earlier you start drawing on professional insights, the sooner you\u2019ll be set up for your dream job! Whether you\u2019re doing it on LinkedIn, in person or wherever else you feel so inclined, networking is always worth it.<\/p>\n

Where Does Networking Happen?<\/h2>\n

Even those who want to run head-first into networking environments don\u2019t always know how to get amongst the networking scene. However, it\u2019s not that hard to find! Even if you\u2019re not getting invited to those elusive VIP networking events (and don\u2019t worry, we\u2019re not either), there are plenty of places to do it.<\/p>\n

LinkedIn<\/strong><\/h3>\n

LinkedIn is the platform for expanding your professional network, and it\u2019s super easy to use, too! Once you\u2019ve built up your profile, start connecting with all the professionals in your dream industry. Chances are, a bunch will accept your invitation, and you\u2019ll be well on your way to having a fully-fledged network!<\/p>\n

Pro tip: for advice on LinkedIn profile building, check out our blog on personal branding.<\/a> Not to toot our own horn, but it\u2019s pretty good.<\/p>\n

Career Days<\/strong><\/h3>\n

If you\u2019re still at high school, your school will likely run career days. By getting amongst the action and putting your best foot forward, you can use these events to network with incredible pros who want to help launch your career.
\nWhen meeting up with new people, make sure you flex your social skills by actively listening, smiling and asking relevant questions. You never know just how far a handshake could take you!<\/p>\n

Work Events<\/strong><\/h3>\n

For those of you who are already working in entry-level roles, all kinds of work events serve as perfect opportunities for networking (and schmoozing). Whether it\u2019s a Christmas Party or a celebratory work hang-out, dedicate some time to getting to know the higher-ups in your company. They\u2019re full of useful advice on how to progress within your company!<\/p>\n

\"Student<\/p>\n

A Beginner\u2019s Guide to Networking Strategies<\/h2>\n

Use Your Network to Start Networking<\/strong><\/h3>\n

It sounds a little redundant, right? When you\u2019re just starting to network, it\u2019s normal to think that you don\u2019t already have valuable professional connections. However, we’re, willing to bet that isn\u2019t entirely true.<\/p>\n

Maybe your parents or family friends know people working in your dream industry. Perhaps your bestie\u2019s parents or your teachers do too. By checking in and asking for introductions from people you\u2019re already comfortable with, you might just meet a valuable industry contact.<\/p>\n

Once you\u2019ve done this a couple of times, you\u2019ll begin feeling way more comfortable, and the snowball effect will start taking place. Essentially, the more connections you make, the more people can introduce you to new contacts! What\u2019s more, your social skills will keep getting better with every connection; all you need to do is stay persistent.<\/p>\n

Have Talking Points and Icebreakers at the Ready<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Introverts are famous for hating small talk, and when you\u2019re going into a networking environment unprepared, you\u2019re basically setting yourself up for dull weather chat. Not only will this be painfully boring, but it also won\u2019t help you expand your professional knowledge.<\/p>\n

Before entering a networking environment, figure out what you want to learn and who you want to connect with. That way, you\u2019ll be well-equipped to craft some compelling talking points. Being prepared is a great way to impress your professional connections and show them that you\u2019re serious about your career, too!<\/p>\n

If you can\u2019t think of a good opener, we\u2019ve got your back. Try out some of these to start with:<\/p>\n