How to Network as an Introvert When You Work Remotely

How to Network as an Introvert When You Work Remotely

When most people gush about the benefits of remote work, they usually call out the obvious ones: flexibility, work-life balance, time for travel, and the list goes on and on. But for the introverts among us, remote work isn’t just an alternative to traditional office gigs; it’s the alternative.

After all, not everyone loves a crowd, or even morning watercooler conversations. If you’re an introverted remote worker, you may be grateful to not have to convene with large groups or make small talk with people on a regular basis. However, building your professional network is still important for your long-term career.

Here’s how you can comfortably network as an introvert and broaden your social circle without exhausting yourself in the process:

1. Remember: You Are Not Alone

Not in your profession, not in your city, and especially not in the level of insecurity you feel around new people! You read that right: everyone has insecurity when it comes to networking. Some people are just better at hiding it.

Furthermore, you aren’t likely to be the only introvert in the room. Some of the most influential people in history have been self-proclaimed introverts (Einstein, Gandhi, Eleanor Roosevelt, J.K. Rowling, and Warren Buffet among them, just to name a few). Remember that when you’re walking into the next big networking event. If you’d like to test the waters first, try a remote conference or Twitter chat as a low-stakes way to begin networking virtually.

2. Lead With the Good Stuff

Since the dawn of venture capitalism, we’ve heard the term “elevator speech” as it applies to startup entrepreneurs who are trying to bend the ears of potential investors. But you need one, too. As a professional—and an introverted one at that—you’ve got to have something prepared for the moment when someone inevitably asks about your history. It’s your first chance to effectively communicate your personal brand.

After all, that’s what face-to-face networking is all about: people wandering around, eating finger foods, hoping to meet someone who can help them get a little further along in their careers. Having a short, compelling blurb that’s ready to go will help ease your nerves—plus, you’ll make a great first impression. It’s a win-win!

3. Embrace Your Strengths

It might be tempting to just chalk up your lack of networking prowess to your introverted nature, but that’s a trap. Don’t forget about the many benefits of being a quieter individual. Introverts are often more reflective and inquisitive, and the small number of relationships they do have are very close ones. They’re often excellent listeners, as it’s where they find themselves most comfortable. And since many people (especially the extroverts among us) often enjoy talking about themselves, this puts introverts at an intel advantage. Believe it or not, this combination—a little bit curious and little bit humble—actually can give you an edge at social events.

Armed with a killer personal elevator speech, a laundry list of strengths, and the assurance that you’re not the only one with a few work-related insecurities, you’re ready to waltz in to any tech summit, conference, or networking event and take on the world!

Well, not so fast there, champ. Even with all that planning, you can’t be expected to change your nature overnight. Set a small goal for yourself that you know you can stick to. Even if it’s something as simple as, “Exchange contact info with two new people,” it’s a great start to growing your networking skills, and a potential boon to your remote career.

Photo Credit: bigstockphoto.com


By Kristi DePaul | Categories: Work Remotely


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