How to network—no matter your personality type
Networking can be tough, no matter your personality type. Here are some simple hacks to make it easier and more effective, whether you're an introvert or an extrovert…or a bit of both.
Imagine the scene: you walk into a packed conference room. Groups of people are huddled together, balancing tired-looking pastries and cups of lukewarm coffee. The room hums with conversation. The noise is almost overwhelming.
Not a single familiar face in sight.
How do you feel?
Excited? This is your chance to meet leading names in your field and make connections that could boost your career. You’re buzzing.
Panicked? How are you going to join a conversation? What will you say? You’re already looking for the nearest exit.
Your response likely comes down to your personality–are you more of an extrovert or introvert? And whether you thrive in networking environments or dread them.
The truth is, networking can be easy and hard, no matter which camp you fall into.
In this blog, we share tailored strategies to help you network in a way that suits your personality.
Are you an introvert or extrovert?
Before we dive in, it’s important to note there are many ways to define personality types. For this blog, we’re focusing specifically on extroversion and introversion.
The concepts of introversion and extroversion were first introduced by Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung in the 1920s.
Introverts, he argued, direct their energy inward, focusing on thoughts, ideas, and introspection.
Extraverts (as he called them) direct their energy outward, engaging with people, activities, and external stimulation.
While you may fall neatly into one of these categories, you may also have traits of both.
Networking is a skill
It’s easy to assume extroverts are natural networkers and introverts struggle—but that’s not always the case.
Sure, extroverts may find striking up conversations easier, but networking isn’t about talking to the most people. It’s about building real relationships, fostering meaningful connections, and maintaining them over time.
Introverts—who often favor one-on-one engagement in calm environments— can be just as (if not more) effective at networking. They tend to be good listeners, think before they speak and can be more attuned to others’ needs.
The bottom line is: anyone can be great at networking. The key is to approach it in a way that plays to your strengths.
Networking tips for the more extroverted
If you identify as more of an extrovert, here are some tips to consider next time you’re in a networking situation.
#1 Avoid dominating the conversation
As someone who thrives in group environments, it’s important to stay self-aware and ensure you’re not dominating the conversation—especially when speaking with a more introverted person.
If you realize you're doing most of the talking, pause and give the other person a chance to contribute.
And if someone seems hesitant to jump in, try asking an open-ended question and giving them space to respond.
#2 Listen
Avoid interrupting–even if you’re desperate to interject. Listening matters. It not only makes the other person feel respected, it allows you to identify shared interests or view points, which can lead to an ongoing relationship.
Plus, if the person feels like you’ve taken a genuine interest in their life or what they have to say, they’re more likely to remember you–making the all-important follow up easier.
In his renowned book, How to Win Friends and Influence People, Dale Carnegie emphasizes the importance of being a good listener in building relationships.
“Be a good listener. Encourage others to talk about themselves,” he writes.
#3 Don’t burn out
In a networking situation, being an extrovert has many benefits. But it can easily lead to burn out if you don’t manage your energy well.
Yes, extroverts tend to thrive from social interactions, but endless small talk and constantly being “on” can leave even the most extroverted person wiped out.
To avoid this, set a realistic goal of the number of people you want to talk to at an event. Remember, networking isn’t a numbers game, it’s about making meaningful connections with people.
If you’re networking online, set a timer–30 minutes, for example–and stop once the time is up.
Give yourself space to rest. Don’t jump from one conversation to another.
#4 Capitalize on your strengths
As someone who feels more confident in social situations, use your strengths to include people who may feel overlooked in a conversation.
If you notice someone hovering nearby, gently encourage them to join in.
Not only will they feel welcome, you may end up having a strong connection with the person who you may not have spoken to otherwise.
Networking tips for the more introverted
If you consider yourself to be more introverted, follow this advice to get the most out of your next networking experience.
#1 Set yourself a goal
Before you get to the event, set yourself a manageable goal such as connecting with two to three people. This will help you stay focused and take some of the pressure off. As mentioned earlier, networking isn’t about collecting as many business cards as possible, it’s about making meaningful, lasting connections.
The same goes for online networking. Start by defining your goal. For example, plan to reach out to two people a week on LinkedIn with a personalized message, inviting them to connect for a Zoom chat.
#2 Prepare an introduction
There's no need to write an entire script, but it can help to prepare a short introduction to boost your confidence when networking.
You can even practice it a few times in front of a mirror to get comfortable.
Another tip is to come up with some talking points in advance. This can help you guide conversations and help them to flow naturally.
Example talking points could include:
- industry trends
- projects they’re working on
- professional development
- interests outside of work
- what brought them to the event
That said, don’t feel tied to a strict script. Use these points as a backup if needed, but if the conversation is flowing naturally, don’t worry about shoehorning them in. Let the discussion evolve organically.
#3 Avoid large groups
If it’s an in-person event, seek out smaller groups or people on their own. It’s often easier to have meaningful conversations in a smaller setting rather than trying to engage in large, bustling groups.
Try to find like-minded people who are interested in similar topics or industries. This can help create a more natural and engaging conversation, as you'll have shared experiences to talk about.
Don’t be afraid to approach someone who seems a bit isolated—they may be looking for a conversation just as much as you are.
#4 Ask questions
Whether you’re talking to someone in-person or online, a good tactic to avoid awkward silences is to ask questions. People, after all, like talking about themselves.
You can ask them about their work and industry but also about their hobbies and interests. Listen carefully to their answers so that the conversation flows naturally. Don’t become fixated on the next question.
#5 Stick to online networking
If talking to people in-person feels overwhelming, stick to networking online. LinkedIn is a great place to start since it’s specifically designed for professional connections–unlike other social media platforms.
LinkedIn’s filters help you easily target the right people for your goals, and you can engage by commenting on posts or sending direct messages.
Plus, networking online allows you to connect on your own time, at your own pace.
Other ways to network online—besides social media—include:
- Joining professional communities or memberships
- Engaging in Slack groups
- Participating in online forums
- Attending or hosting webinars
- Appearing on podcasts
#6 Tell yourself you can do it
Finally, approach networking with the right mindset. Keep your goal in mind, plan ahead, and remind yourself you can do this.
If your first networking conversation doesn’t go to plan, don’t panic. Learn from it and move forward. Remember, networking is a skill–the more you practice, the easier it becomes, and the more confident you’ll feel.
You may also be interested in
11 Dec 2024
How to juggle work and study at the same time
Explore our programs and certificates
CFA Institute offers a diverse range of programs and certificates designed to meet the needs of finance professionals across various career stages and specializations.
