By Katrina D. Saria, Digital Communications Specialist, MBA Candidate

As an introvert, I have always dreaded networking – never knowing what to say, where to stand and how to make the most out of the experience.

Before going any further, I think it would be important for me to differentiate between an introvert and a shy individual. Pinpointing which of these you are is necessary to find the support you need to network successfully.

Dr. Bernardo Carducci of the American Psychological Association describes an introvert as someone who enjoys time alone and feels emotionally drained after spending a lot of time with others. A shy person, on the other hand, doesn’t necessarily want to be alone but is afraid to interact with others. When networking, it is helpful for the latter to follow a step-by-step guide.

I have always thought that being an introvert is a weakness, but we actually have several characteristics that work to our advantage. According to workplace psychologist Dr. Janet Civitelli, “Introverts are good observers and excellent listeners. They also reflect before speaking. These are all qualities that can work for them when networking and forming relationships.”

Over time, I have gathered the following learnings, all of which have helped make networking a little less daunting:

Connect the Introvert’s Way

Introverts relate very well one-on-one or in small groups. Networking is all about building relationships and the same can be done just as well in big groups as in smaller ones.

Additionally, to ease their stress, introverts can ask a close work friend to come along and help them navigate the event.

Use your Network to Network

Ask everyone in your network: Who else should I meet? Would you introduce me to someone you think would like to geek out with me? Because introverts are known for forming meaningful relationships, the people in their network will not hesitate – they may even be happy to because they know them well – to introduce them to their friends and colleagues personally or via email.

This is a great way to expand their network without having to engage in small talk.

Use Online Platforms

Utilizing social media is an effective, yet low-energy, way to network. Introverts can use LinkedIn to follow, comment and/or share the posts of people they admire. Another option is to join and participate in online communities that talk about their area or field of interest. Online platforms can help introverts showcase their expertise, build their reputation and find potential collaborators and mentors.

Stay in Touch

Networking is not a one-time event, but a continuous process of building and nurturing relationships. Introverts can stay in touch by sending a “Thank You!” email, a LinkedIn request and/or an article that reminded them of their new connection. Introverts can also check in regularly, offer help and/or share updates. Doing this will show that they value the connection and are very interested in keeping it alive.

Embrace your Introversion

Be yourself and be proud. An introvert’s network is probably not as broad as that of an extrovert’s and that is okay. Remember: the sign of a successful network is not how many connections you have, but the kind of relationship that was formed.