Building a Resilient Network as an Introvert

Hello and welcome to the Traveling Introvert. Today I want to talk about the winning networking combo for introverts. Because there's so many different ways to network. You have the spray painter approach. They kind of engage widely but shallowly. They will talk to everyone and anyone. And this doesn't really work for introverts, to be fair. But all also, it, it may feel overwhelming, it might feel superficial.

And those are things that we as introverts don't like. We don't like that shallow networking, it doesn't work for us. Then there's sort of another methodology that's sort of the connector. They intentionally network and make strategic introductions. Now this can also be draining because of the feeling of constant outreach and connecting people to each other, but not necessarily connecting people to you. And so you're matchmaker status. And there's apps for that, let's be honest. So with the connector, it's like, okay, well, this is a math and not a sprint.

But how do you maintain that pace of having to constantly be making strategic introductions and intentionally networking to make sure that everyone is happy and all the, all that fun stuff? And let's be honest, people are never always happy. It's just a myth that comes around. So there's also the Deep Diver. They also build meaningful connections, but they value nurturing a very few specific significant relationships. And this fosters loyalty, trust, and therefore quality referrals come out of that. It doesn't feel quite as frantic as a connector. And it doesn't feel like you're having to make constant outreach and spreadsheets just to make sure that you keep in contact with people. And then there's the thought partner.

This is great. It's collaborating with impact. So the thought partner focuses on collaboration and meaningful engagement. And so that is really key because they're not just contacts. They share insight, they contribute ideas and engage meaningfully. They don't just talk at people, they think with people. They don't just bring ideas, but they bring perspective, probably in a calm and clarifying way. And yes, the Deep Diver does nurture meaningful relationships.

And they follow up with care. And they're known for their thoughtfulness. They create loyalty and high quality referrals because they've taken that time to build trust. And it is slowly and intentionally, which is great. It doesn't have to be fast and furious. And so combining that Deep Diver and that thought partner strategy helps to create a resilient network, almost a community. And that is a great network to have. Putting them together, it's powerful.

It creates A resilient, sustainable approach to networking that works whether times are good or times are bad. Because you build real trust with the right people. You're not faking it. No constant coffee chats with strangers. They know your value. Maybe they've seen thoughtful content, had meaningful conversations with you or with others who have spoken about you, which has helped create quiet credibility. And you attract referrals and collaboration, not just because you're helpful, but because you are consistent. When you are helpful and you are clear in your communication, we all know you don't need to be loud to be seen, but you do need to work to build strong connections.

It just needs to be intentional and consistent. And you. You are what's important there. You bring that thing. So is there a conversation or collaboration that can help you show up more as a deep diver or as a thought partner? Moving forward, think about what that might look like. Embrace your natural networking strengths. Where can you show up authentically in your networking efforts? Thank you for listening. This is Janice at the Career Introvert, helping you build your brand and get hired.

Have a great rest of your week.