About this episode
This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.Welcome to The Woman's Career Podcast. I'm so glad you're here because today we're diving into one of the most transformative skills you can develop: networking effectively. Whether you're the type who lights up a room or prefer meaningful one-on-one conversations, there's a networking style that works perfectly for you.Let's start with something that might surprise you. Research shows that eighty-five percent of jobs come through networking, not job boards. Your network isn't just social, it's strategic. According to Jacqueline Twillie, a leadership expert featured in the Winning Season podcast, women with strong circles of female peers are significantly more likely to land executive positions. This isn't about collecting business cards or working a room. It's about building genuine relationships that create mutual growth.Now, here's what I want you to understand about your personality and networking. If you're an introvert, you might worry that networking requires a certain extroverted energy. It doesn't. Felicia Ann Rose Enuha, a career coach and host of the Trill MBA Show, reminds us that networking is simply a conversation. Start with people you already know and trust, then expand outward through their networks. This approach actually plays to your strength because you probably excel at deeper, more meaningful conversations.For my extroverted listeners, your superpower is building visibility and making connections feel easy. But remember what Jacqueline Twillie emphasizes: the best networks are built on sharing resources and knowledge, not clout. Small consistent actions matter more than grand gestures. Maybe you're the person who shares a valuable article with your circle or introduces two people who should know each other. That matters tremendously.Both personality types need to embrace intentionality. First, get clear on what you want to accomplish in your career. What's your goal? Where are you going? Then look for people who are doing what you're trying to do or have already accomplished it. You might find them at industry events, through LinkedIn, or in your existing circle.Here's something powerful that Jacquie Peros, a personal branding expert who spoke at the ninth Annual Women Plus Media Career Summit, teaches: when you build meaningful professional relationships, you don't just gain contacts. You gain access, advocates, and information about opportunities. Those opportunities rarely get posted on job boards.And listen, if you're feeling nervous about reaching out to someone new, that's normal. Get out of your own way. As Felicia Ann Rose Enuha says, be curious. Reach out and say something like, "I've seen this about your career, and I'm intrigued. I'd love to learn more about you." That's it. You're not asking for anything. You're expressing genuine interest.Don't overlook your weak ties e
