Contrary to the popular belief of both introverted and extroverted people, both personality types have characteristics that can help them be excellent networkers. Sometimes extroverts assume they are the best networkers because of their willingness to meet and interact with large groups of people. There is also the misconception that all introverts are shy or aren't engaging personalities.Introverts have just as much personality as extroverts, they just express it differently.
Here are four reasons why introverted people can be excellent networkers.
1. Networking is all about developing mutually beneficial relationships.
The key to starting a relationship is to make the other person feel appreciated and to show them that you are interested in them. Extroverts can meet a lot of people in a short amount of time through high-energy social interaction, but networking always comes down to one person interacting with another. Introverts prefer to have fewer and deeper relationships, so they will use their one-on-one people skills to help them cultivate constructive relationships.
2. Listening skills are vital to learning about other people.
People want to feel that they are being heard. And, to help them solve problems, you've got to hear them talk about their needs. Because introverts are less assertive in speaking, they are less likely to control the conversation. But this means that the other person is much more likely to steer the discussion toward whatever is heaviest on their mind. This creates an opportunity for the savvy networker to help solve the problem through an introduction, giving them a referral, or knowing how to solve it themselves.
3. Networking is about connecting people who can help each other.
Introverts tend to enjoy an inner world of deep thinking and problem-solving. Inside this inner world can be a great deal of knowledge and experience that can be put to use to help other people within their network. While an introvert may know know "everyone" (as people assume extroverts do), but if they will spend time reviewing their resources and know-how, they will become a valued friend to those they help.
4. Maintaining connections is vital to building long-term relationships.
With fewer contacts, introverts can put more resources toward keeping in touch with the people in their networks. They have stronger ties to fewer people. Even though the theory of "weak ties" (we get a greater variety of information from people outside of our tight circle) suggests introverts may be at a disadvantage, they can actually turn this to their favor. They may have fewer relationships themselves, but the stronger ties they develop should give them greater access to the people their contacts know.
Conclusion
While introverts may have to work a little harder at some aspects of networking, their personality style doesn't mean they are at a disadvantage. In fact, some skills that are vital to developing a strong network of mutually beneficial relationship depend on the strengths of introverts, including listening, staying connected and problem-solving. If you are an introvert, don't let those extroverts convince you that they have superior skills. Stay focused on your strengths to become a successful networker.
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