Unleashing the Networking Giant Within Introverts

In the digital age, I've found online forums to be a gold mine for connections. It was on one such forum that I encountered Riley, a self-professed introverted entrepreneur with a passion for sustainable technologies. Riley—who prefers the pronoun “they”—shared their apprehension about traditional networking and how it often felt inauthentic. It was then they mentioned finding inspiration in a podcast featuring Jevonya Allen that led them to read Ms. Allen’s book, "The Introvert's Guide to Becoming a Master Networker.”

In this inspiring book, Jevonya challenges common misconceptions of introverts as passive, indifferent, and unassertive. She argues instead that introverts are uniquely designed to build the kind of deep, trusting relationships necessary for authentic networking. Jevonya offers her readers a step-by-step process for becoming a master networker, from an introvert’s perspective. She says, “This process requires time, patience, and hard work, but one great thing about us introverts is that we aren’t afraid of hard work.”

So today, we share with you Jevonya Allen’s 8 Steps to Becoming a Master Networker:

1. Create a few affirmations for yourself

Small statements that reinforce positive thoughts about yourself can help you get rid of your negative thoughts over time, Allen says — whether you’re fighting harmful misconceptions about introverts or other personal insecurities. One example: “I’m an introvert that doesn’t always like socializing, and that’s completely OK.” Another: “I’m not perfect at networking, but I’m working on improving every day.” Allen recommends writing down your affirmations in a journal, on an index card, or even somewhere on your phone. Read them as often as possible, especially when you’re having negative thoughts. The result, she says, is that “you’ll start to carry yourself with more confidence, and that will only draw more people to you.”

2. Have a strategy for networking events

As much as you might want to avoid attending networking events with large groups of people, they’re still a great way to make business connections, Allen says. “To ease your stress, ask a close work friend to come along so you can help each other navigate the event—or even approach strangers together if that’s more comfortable,” Allen suggests. Try to schedule networking events when you’ll have enough energy to do something that doesn’t come naturally to you. Consider avoiding events right after work, when you might be too tired to put forth your best effort. Allen also recommends creating specific goals to help you make the most of attending. That might mean staying at the venue for at least one hour or getting contact information from at least two people before the event ends.

3. Schedule one-on-ones

After you make those new business connections, the next step is to schedule one-on-one meetings with them. Allen recommends meeting at least one networking connection weekly, for roughly 30 minutes each. Getting to know your new connections better will help you build a network that can help advance your career or business, she says. Try preparing some questions in advance to make the conversation easier, Allen suggests. Focus on learning more about them, their line of work, and what advice they may have for you. Be prepared to share information about yourself and your career goals. “You’ll come away knowing whether you could work together or assist each other in some way,” Allen says.

4. Make following up a habit

Always following up after connecting with someone at an event or one-on-one meeting can make you stand out, Allen says. It’s a simple step that can make others remember you in a positive light. Send an email, a text message, or a handwritten note that thanks them for connecting with you and either initiates another meetup or lets them know you’ll reach out again in the future. “Make it a habit to send those follow-up messages within 24 to 48 hours of connecting,” Allen says.

5. Pay attention to names 

“Remembering people’s names and pronouncing them correctly is a simple way to make a great lasting impression on someone,” Allen shared. She acknowledges that it can be difficult, so she has a few strategies for what to do after someone introduces themselves to you. Ask them how to correctly pronounce their name, and repeat it back to them to make it easier for your mind to remember. Find a few opportunities to use their name in your conversation with them, she adds: It can make you more personable while increasing your chances of remembering it.

6. Don’t forget the power of a smile

Smiling may not be appropriate in all situations, but Allen suggests making it a goal to smile more often during conversations with new connections. It’ll make you appear more confident, she says. A 2013 study by researchers in Switzerland presented different faces with varying happiness to a group of participants. They found that participants preferred faces with a stronger smile. “Everybody appreciates the smile,” Allen stated. “I would love more introverts to get out there and show their smiles because it will only help you make the connections you want.”

7. Take advantage of social media

Social media can’t fully replace networking in person, but it’s a free and “low-energy” alternative that still allows you to make connections and promote your career and business, Allen says. Some platforms might be more useful than others: “People in your industry may be most active on Twitter, while people from another industry might frequently post on LinkedIn.” Once you choose a platform, Allen recommends regularly reaching out to potential new connections. After you’ve connected with someone, send them a direct message thanking them for connecting with you and explaining why you wanted to connect. Then, stay engaged: “Regularly post about your ongoing projects or comment on other people’s posts.”

8. Cultivating a Mindset of Generosity

Networking isn't just about what you can get; it's also about what you can give. Approaching networking with the intention of offering value, support, and resources to others without immediate expectation of return involves sharing knowledge, offering introductions, or providing feedback. The focus is on building trust and mutual respect, which are foundational for long-term relationships. A generosity-first approach can transform networking from a transactional activity into a relational and fulfilling one. As Jevonya Allen says, “Networking is most effective when we approach it with a mindset of generosity, looking not only for how we can grow but also how we can help others grow along the way."

We found Jevonya Allen's insightful journey and practical steps for mastering networking, especially from an introvert’s perspective, to serve as a powerful guide for entrepreneurs seeking to navigate the complex world of professional connections. By celebrating her wisdom and adopting these practices as small, daily habits, entrepreneurs can unlock significant growth and success in their ventures. Let her guidance inspire you to embrace networking with confidence and curiosity, laying a strong foundation for your business and fostering meaningful, lasting relationships in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

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