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Rise Together: Networking Strategies for Every Woman's Career Journey
This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.
Welcome to The Woman's Career Podcast. Today, we’re cutting straight to a skill that elevates women’s careers everywhere: networking, and how to do it effectively whether you’re a classic introvert or a bold extrovert.
From talking with women at WomenTech Network and learning from Kellogg School of Management findings, it’s clear: networking isn’t just about swapping business cards or tallying LinkedIn connections. For women, creating powerful networks can mean the difference between struggling solo and rising together. But the challenge many women face is figuring out how to build the right network—one that lifts you up and helps smash through those glass ceilings.
If you’re an introvert, the idea of big events or group mingling might seem exhausting. That’s okay. Smart networking can happen quietly, and it can play to your strengths. Leading Lady Coaching recommends setting boundaries—try starting with just one in-person event a month and weave in several online activities. Use your writing powers: thoughtful LinkedIn messages, meaningful emails, or even handwritten notes don’t require real-time conversation and allow you to communicate your value in a way that feels authentic and energizing.
Another strategy for introverts is to build relationships before meeting in person—comment on someone’s post, offer genuine advice, share articles. Let your connections grow naturally so, when you finally do meet, the groundwork is already there. You can even host your own intimate gatherings; small masterminds, book clubs, or focused lunch groups give you control over the environment and let you foster deeper conversations.
For extroverts, networking is often more about leveraging your strengths—energy, connection, and enthusiasm. Go out and participate in executive networking events, attend summits, or speak at professional conferences. According to WomenTech Network’s survey, high-level women leaders thrive by actively seeking new opportunities outside their own workplaces. They’re not afraid to mingle, ask questions, and put themselves in front of the right people. For extroverts, the focus should be less about quantity and more about forging meaningful interactions. Walk in with a goal, know who you want to meet, and make each conversation a genuine exchange—ask what you can give, not just what you can get.
For all women, it helps to embrace women-centric networks—places like The Collective, La Cadena de Éxito, or WomenTech provide communities where you’re understood and empowered. Being part of groups that celebrate women's achievements, share mentorship opportunities, and encourage collaboration not only strengthens your career but also fuels gender equality in the workplace.
Don’t overlook the value of follow-up, regardless of your personality. Following up after making a connection—a quick email, a thank-you note, an offer to collaborate—turns a fleeting interaction into a strong professional relationship. And diversify—connect outside your own industry, age, race, and job role. Sometimes, those cross-industry contacts prove the most valuable.
A few practical tips to supercharge your network: step outside your comfort zone and volunteer for new projects; ask honest questions and seek feedback from peers and mentors; embed networking into daily work by making time for quick chats, lunch with people outside your circle, or brief post-meeting conversations.
Effective networking isn’t about changing who you are. It’s about leaning into your strengths, building deep and diverse relationships, and showing up with genuine curiosity and generosity. Whether you’re networking online, in small groups, or at major events, every connection is a step on your path—and the path for women everywhere—to a more powerful, fulfilling career.
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Published on 4 days, 19 hours ago