How to Make Networking Less Intimidating

If networking makes you anxious, here’s one of my favorite confidence shortcuts: Confidence comes from purpose. When I used to go to big conferences, the breaks were the hardest part. Everyone wandering around, trying to figure out who to talk to… and I’d freeze. So I gave myself a simple purpose: Get in line. Any line. I’d stand in the longest Starbucks line, grab a tiny coffee, then get in another line for a snack, then another line for a treat. Every time I stood in line I talked to the person ahead of me or behind me (whichever one seemed less interested in their phones). And it worked. I ended up meeting dozens of people this way. Lines give you a gentle, built-in way to talk to people without the pressure of walking up cold. I’d say something simple, “Learn anything cool at this conference so far?” This worked super well for quickly getting to do a chemistry check with someone. If it worked, we would sit down together or take a walk. If not, we wished each other well. But the real magic trick is this: After you get your coffee or snack, stand near the spot where people step out of the line. That moment when someone turns back toward the room — drink in hand, scanning for who to talk to — that’s your opening. You can make it super easy and warm: • “Love that coffee. Is it good?” • “What brings you here today?” • “Such a fun event, right?” They’re relieved someone spoke first. You’re relieved you had a purpose. And the conversation flows naturally. It becomes a win-win. Networking doesn’t have to feel scary. It just needs purpose. At your next event: • Find a line • Chat with the people around you • Say hello to the person who steps out next It’s one of the easiest ways to have great conversations without forcing a single moment.

Networking feels awkward because you’re doing it wrong. You don’t need to master small talk or attend every event. You need to be genuine. Here’s what actually works: 1/ Comment thoughtfully on posts before sending connection requests 2/ Share valuable resources with no strings attached 3/ Follow up after conversations (most people don’t) 4/ Ask questions and actually listen to answers 5/ Offer help before asking for favors 6/ Connect people who should know each other 7/ Show up consistently, not when you need something 8/Send voice notes or quick videos instead of formal emails 9/ Remember details about people’s lives and projects One genuine connection beats 100 superficial ones. Quality always wins over quantity.

Networking for Introverts Lessons from my Singapore Management University workshop Networking advice often sounds the same: "Speak up, hand out business cards, follow up within 24 hours." Useful, yes—but let's take it a step further. Here’s the advice that’s helped even the shyest professionals stand out: 1️⃣ Do Recon on Attendees (Without Being Creepy) Before events, research key attendees or speakers on LinkedIn. Note shared interests or recent achievements to weave into conversations. And if Wi-Fi is spotty at events? Save profiles offline for reference. Being prepared makes even the most introverted among us feel in control. 2️⃣ Ask Thoughtful, Unexpected Questions After building some quick rapport, try asking: "What’s the most exciting thing happening in your industry right now?" "If you weren’t in [current role], what would you be doing?" It shows genuine curiosity and sparks meaningful conversations. 3️⃣ It’s not about you—it’s about them. Practice active listening to uncover their hidden professional needs. Ask questions like, “What’s been your biggest challenge this year?” and offer insights or solutions. Giving value leaves a lasting impression. Networking doesn’t have to feel forced or superficial. Introverts can thrive by leveraging their strengths—preparation, thoughtfulness, and a genuine desire to connect. What’s one unorthodox networking tip that’s worked for you? Share it in the comments! 👇

"I hate networking." I hear this all the time. And I get it. The idea of walking up to strangers at events, making small talk, and asking for favors feels forced and uncomfortable. But here's the truth: networking doesn't have to feel like networking. Here's how to build genuine connections without being awkward: Start with warm connections. Don't cold message strangers on LinkedIn. Start with: → Former colleagues → Alumni from your school → Mutual contacts who can introduce you → People you've worked with before These conversations are easier because there's already a foundation. Lead with offering value, not asking for favors. Don't start with: "Can you help me find a job?" Start with: "I saw your post about [topic] and thought you might find this article interesting." Or: "Congratulations on your new role! I'd love to hear how it's going." Give first. Ask later. Use LinkedIn to build relationships before asking for anything. Don't send a connection request and immediately ask for something. Instead: → Engage with their posts (thoughtful comments, not just "Great post!") → Share their content when it's relevant → Send a message just to catch up, no agenda Build the relationship over time. When you do reach out, make it easy for them. Don't say: "Can I pick your brain?" Say: "I'd love to hear about your experience at [Company]. Would you be open to a 20-minute coffee chat? I'm happy to work around your schedule." Be specific about what you're asking for and respect their time. Schedule "informational coffee chats" instead of calling it networking. Reframe it in your mind. You're not networking. You're: → Learning from someone's experience → Having a conversation about your industry → Building a relationship with someone interesting Take the pressure off yourself. Follow up and stay in touch; don't just reach out when you need something. After the conversation: → Send a thank you note within 24 hours → Share an article or resource they might find useful → Check in every few months (congratulate them on wins, share updates) Stay on their radar in a genuine way. The best networking doesn't feel transactional. It feels like building real relationships with people you respect. And those relationships? They're the ones that actually lead to opportunities. Save this post so you're ready to network without the awkwardness.

I used to think networking was all about big talk and big rooms. So I stayed quiet. Observed. Waited. But here’s the truth no one tells you: Introverts can be great at networking. You just have to do it your way. Here’s how I started (and how you can too) ↓ 1️⃣ Start Small → Leave thoughtful comments on posts. → DM someone to thank them for a helpful insight. One message > 100 likes. 2️⃣ Go Asynchronous → Can’t do video calls? Write. → Not a fan of voice? Send a short text. You don’t have to talk to connect. 3️⃣ Offer, Don’t Ask → Share a useful resource. → Offer feedback. Give first. People remember that. 4️⃣ Be Honest → Say you’re just starting out. → Say you're an introvert. Genuine > polished. Networking isn’t about being loud. It’s about building real connections—quietly, consistently, meaningfully. If you’ve ever felt too shy to network, This is your sign to start, your way. P.S. Are you an introvert trying to network? Drop “👋” and let’s connect! -Ghazi Khan #networkingtips #introverts #careergrowth #personalbranding

Networking isn’t about collecting business cards or sending generic LinkedIn messages—it’s about building real, meaningful connections. But let’s be honest: it can feel awkward, especially when you don’t know where to start. Here’s how I’ve learned to make networking both effective and authentic - Provide some sort of value. When reaching out to someone, think about how you can bring value to them. Instead of asking, “Can I pick your brain?” try something like: - “I really enjoyed your recent post about [topic]—it gave me new insights.” - “I noticed you’ve worked on [project/field]. Here’s a resource I found helpful—thought you might too!” Starting with value makes the interaction about collaboration, not extraction. Networking doesn’t end with the first meeting. After connecting, follow up with a personalized message: “It was great chatting about [topic]. I came across this article that aligns with what we discussed—thought you’d find it interesting!” Consistency and genuine interest are what transform connections into relationships. Networking is a skill, not a transaction. It’s about showing up authentically, giving more than you take, and staying connected.

Traditional networking is broken. It is loud, draining, and simply not as effective. Flip the script. Make networking not just effective, but fun. ❌ You do not need to play their game. As an introvert, you already have the edge. You create deeper, more meaningful connections. ✅ You just need to lean into what works for you. Here is your guide to building a powerful network; on your terms. 1️⃣ Find meaningful moments. Skip the noisy crowd. Where do real connections happen? In calm spaces, with approachable people. Shared interests? A quiet energy? That’s your person. 2️⃣ Focus on one great connection. Do you really need to meet everyone? One real conversation beats ten surface chats. Look for someone curious or engaged. That is where the value lies. 3️⃣ Set your own rules. Who says you have to stay all night? Decide how long you want to be there. Pick how many people you want to meet. Protect your energy. It is yours to manage. 4️⃣ Take recharge breaks. Feeling drained? Step away. Find a quiet corner or head outside. Breathe. Reset. Then come back stronger. 5️⃣ Bring a wingperson. Why do it alone if you do not have to? Go with someone who knows you. They can help with introductions. You can focus on the connection, not the crowd. 6️⃣ Ask, then listen. What’s the easiest way to connect? Start with a thoughtful question. “What excites you about your work?” Let them talk. Listening makes people feel heard. 7️⃣ Stick to events that suit you. Why force yourself into constant small talk? Go to workshops or panels. Listen, learn, and join in when it feels right. 8️⃣ Skip the room, use the DMs. Big events feel overwhelming? No problem. Follow up later. Send a message. Be direct and intentional. 9️⃣ Let people come to you. What if you did not have to chase connections? Share your thoughts online. Posts and comments attract like-minded people. 🔟 Find your own style. Networking does not have to look one way. Coffee chats. Small meetups. Online groups. Do it in a way that fits you. ❌ Networking is not about doing everything. ✅ It is about doing what feels right. And when you find your flow, connections will come naturally. ————— I am Sven, and my mission is to help introverted entrepreneurs and professionals thrive as who they are while protecting their energy to focus on their dreams. Want to learn more? Check my profile, subscribe to my newsletter, or feel free to reach out anytime.

👻👻 A (professional) introvert's guide to making Networking Events Less Spooky 👻👻 If you fear networking events, copy my playbook. True story: I fear "networking events" on multiple levels. If biz dev wasn't part of my role with Remedy Public Relations, I'd be happy with a more behind-the-scenes role mentoring & strategizing (#careergoals). How do I make it "seem" easy? Preparation & strategy. 1. Show up EARLY. It's easier to strike up a conversation at the beginning than try to inject yourself after. 2. Be distinct. I like to wear one piece of flair that relates to who I am outside the office. My long-distance running shoes (Nike Zoom Fly Five / Hyper Pink), are a conversation starter. ⛳️ Do you play golf? Wear a golf shirt from a brand that only fellow golfers would know. IYKYK 3. Don't rush in. Whenever possible, I'll work remotely near the event. This gives me time to relax & collect myself before walking in. 4. Don't ask what someone does. That's transactional & many fear that question if they're between roles. Ask what they're up to. Let them choose the path. 5. Talk to everyone. I HATE the term referral partners, but I've received some great leads from people far removed from PR & marketing. 6. Plan to chat. Prepare to discuss something you're working on that you're excited about. - No one likes someone who only talks about their job. Be prepared to get personal. What did you do the weekend before that was exciting, or what are you looking forward to this weekend? Sound obvious? Sure… but I can barely remember what I had for lunch yesterday, so if you put me on the spot, I may forget if I didn't prepare. 7. Slide into those DMs. See who registered you want to meet & drop them a note. No list? Check who posted about going to the last event on social media. Drop them a note. 8. What's a challenge you or your industry is facing? Keep that in mind for conversations. 9. Work on your penmanship. If you have to write your own nametag at an event, it helps if people can read it. We also have little Remedy PR stickers to throw at the bottom of the nametags. Side note: Jonah Peake 🐺 has posted before about putting your nametag upside down to spark conversations. 10. Check your network to see who is going, but don't cling to them. I saw a lot of people I know & like at Connect's #IDSD24 a few weeks back, but I didn't sit with anyone too long. Move around. 11. Consistency brings comfort. Commit to a regular series of events so you start seeing some of the same people. It will make conversations less daunting & keep you in mind for later. 12. Stress builds strength. I try to commit to one new event or meeting a month that takes me outside my bubble. Makes the next one easier. 13. Drop a line to them after you meet. Keep the ball moving. Some pics below of people I met for the first time or strengthened relationships by going to networking events within the last six weeks. Kanani, Robyn Goldberg, Jason, Lu, Scott, Susan.

Want to be a good networker without being too cringy? Here are my tips for success: I call it The SCHMOOZE Method because isn't that what it is? S – Skip the Boring Intro Nobody cares about your official title, hook people with a killer oneliner about what you actually do. Instead of "I'm a financial consultant," try: "I help people stop making dumb money mistakes before it’s too late." C – Cut the Sales Pitch Networking is not speed dating for sales. If you treat people like walking dollar signs, you’ll be ghosted faster than a bad Tinder match. H – Have a Killer Story People remember stories, not stats. Got a client who doubled revenue because of your help? Share that. M – Make It About Them Ask powerful questions. The most powerful phrase in networking? "Tell me more." People love to talk about themselves. If you let them, they'll like you more and you might actually learn something too. O – Own Your Weirdness Nobody remembers Mr. Generic Business Guy. Lean into what makes you stand out. Quirky, nerdy, obsessed with a niche? Good. That’s your brand. Me? Snarky in case you didn't know. O – Offer Real Value A tip, an intro, a resource: give something before you ask for anything. It builds trust and makes you instantly more likable. Z – Zero Follow-Up = Zero Results Met someone interesting? Follow up like a human, not a spam bot. A quick email or DM with something relevant (not “just checking in”) keeps you top of mind. E – Exit with Purpose Don't let a good conversation fizzle into awkward silence. End strong: “This was great, let’s set up a quick call next week,” or “I’d love to send you that article I mentioned.” Give them a reason to remember you. "Networking isn’t about collecting contacts, it’s about connecting dots. Be the person people want to connect with, not the one they avoid. Be human, be real. You might even make friends along the way. What did I miss? Tell me below.

How to: network effectively without burning out as an introvert If we haven't met, you may be surprised to learn that I'm an introvert. As a neurodivergent only child, meeting new people drains my battery -- quickly. I enjoy it and find new people fascinating, but whew am I exhausted after an hour or two of small talk. If this sounds like you, I know how intimidating and unappealing the idea of 'networking' can be. I also know how critical it is to your growth and ability to achieve your goals. Here are a few strategies that have worked for me: 🎯 Narrow your goal from 'networking' to building relationships with a specific subset of people. Building a network or community seems like a massive, massive task. Building more relationships with X type of people in Y industry feels much more manageable. Identify your goal, focus on finding that type of person, figure out how you can add value for that type of person, and don't try to boil the ocean. 🤝 Find the connection methodology and format that works best for you and your strengths. I'm a terrible auditory processor, so I am much better at connecting meaningfully asynchronously vs. live. As a result, I try to optimize for that as often as I can. If I'm meeting with someone live, I try to keep it more conversational and less transactional as I know I'll execute better if we follow up in writing. To get to this state, I needed to accept my weaknesses and learn how to gracefully lean into my strengths to optimize for outcome. You need to do the same. 🧪 Run experiments and measure results. Take note of what gets you the results you're looking for. Does introducing yourself one way or another lead to more fruitful conversations? Does a certain anecdote really seem to land every time? Did a comment you made or story you told flop? No problem, just take note of that. The more you experiment with how you connect, the more effective you'll become over time. 📈 Set reasonable goals for yourself. When I go to an in person event or happy hour, I set a goal. Usually, it's that I need to meaningfully connect with 2 or 3 new people. Once I hit that goal, I give myself permission to leave if I'm not having fun. I'd say I end up leaving around 50% of the time at that point, but just having that pre-set expectation and permission reduces my stress levels significantly. 👀 Free yourself from what you think networking is supposed to look like. There are a lot of people who network very loudly on the internet. You don't need to be that person in order to build a community around you. That method might work for them (it also might not - who the heck knows what's actually going on in their lives), but that's just one approach. Fellow introverts who have successfully built a strong network - what tips and tricks did I miss?