TIN #105 - The 7 Most Common Networking Challenges For Introverts And How To Overcome Them
Practical Tips to Improve Your Networking Skills and Build Meaningful Professional Connections
Hey everyone, it's Greg, the Introverted Networker.
Every time someone subscribes to my newsletter, I send them an email asking about their biggest networking challenge.
About 10% of you respond, sharing your struggles.
I've gathered these responses, analyzed them using ChatGPT, and identified seven common networking challenges.
Today, I'll share these challenges along with actionable tips to overcome them.
This issue takes about 4 minutes to read…
Before We Get Started:
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Each week, I post a new podcast with tips you’ll find in the weekly newsletter and bonus stories, wisdom, and motivation. The Introverted Networker podcast is like the weekly newsletter but with additional narration and thoughts from me. Be sure to listen to this week’s podcast and and subscribe to my podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more networking tips and insights.
The video version of the podcast is available on my YouTube channel.
What's Your Biggest Networking Challenge?
Do one of these seven challenges sound familiar?
If so, read on for ways to overcome them!
1. Finding Opportunities to Connect
Many readers struggle with finding the right people to connect with, especially when starting in a new role or environment.
The key is to start with who you know.
Reconnect with people from former jobs, volunteer organizations, or community groups.
These existing connections can lead you to new opportunities and help you gain momentum.
If you want to hear more about overcoming this challenge, check out TIN #001 - How To Network If You Don't Know Anyone.
2. Conversation Skills
Starting and maintaining conversations at networking events can be daunting.
If you're connecting with someone new, ask about their favorite topic—themselves!
Ask about their current projects, challenges, and interests.
This approach takes the pressure off you to keep the conversation going and makes the interaction more engaging.
I covered this in more depth in TIN #003 - What To Say In A Networking Conversation.
3. Lack of Confidence or Shyness
Feeling inadequate or shy is a common hurdle.
Remember, most people feel the same way.
Shift the focus by asking questions.
When you let others do most of the talking, you reduce your anxiety and contribute by keeping the conversation flowing.
Everyone values a good listener.
4. Time Management
Balancing networking with other commitments can be challenging.
Make networking a priority by scheduling just 15 minutes a day.
During this time, send messages, connect with new people on LinkedIn, and comment on posts.
Consistency is key.
If networking is important to you, make it a small, manageable part of your daily routine.
There’s an interesting way to create new habits that you can check out in TIN #007 - How To Create A Networking Habit.
5. Maintaining Relationships
Keeping relationships alive after initial meetings can be tough.
Professional connections don't require constant contact like personal relationships.
Aim to reconnect with your contacts three to four times a year.
Use a simple list to track when you last spoke and when to follow up.
Short, meaningful check-ins are more effective than frequent, superficial contacts.
6. Value Proposition
Many people, especially early in their careers, feel they have little to offer in a networking relationship.
Value isn't always about grand gestures.
Small acts like recommending a book, sharing an article, or making an introduction can be valuable.
Your attention and active listening are powerful gifts that show you care and are engaged.
For more ideas on what you can give, like AIR, check out TIN #004 - How To Make Networking Feel Good
7. Overwhelm and Burnout
Networking can be exhausting, especially during a job search.
It's crucial to avoid confusing activity with progress.
If you're feeling burnt out, take a break.
Reassess your approach to ensure you're connecting with the right people and not just sending out mass requests.
Giving yourself time to recharge can lead to more meaningful and effective networking.
Stay Connected
These seven challenges are common, but with the right strategies, you can overcome them.
If you have a challenge that I didn’t address here, leave it in the comments, and I’ll respond.
Keep sending me your comments, questions, and emails.
Connect with me on LinkedIn and subscribe to the newsletter, podcast, and YouTube channel.
I'm here to help you navigate your networking journey.
Go out this week, meet someone new, and remember—always be connecting.
Before You Go…
A couple things I came across this week on LinkedIn and just had to share with you:
Madeline Mann shared an awesome strategy for connecting with people at your target companies. This is truly brilliant!
Mike D’Angelo shares the power of commenting on LinkedIn. One of his comments was seen by a half million people!