Career experts stress the importance of networking in creating the career you want, but for introverts, the task can be especially daunting. An evening exchanging business cards and elevator pitches in a crowded bar feels more like a nightmare than a smart career move. But expanding your professional network and letting them know where you want to be can have a profound impact on actually getting you there.
So what’s an introvert to do?
One of the first pieces of advice I always give to job seekers is to network with the people you already know – friends, family, neighbors, former colleagues and fellow college alumni. These people are valuable members of your LinkedIn network and, ideally, will be happy to introduce you to potentially helpful contacts in their LinkedIn networks.
However, there are some instances where you’ll want to reach out to people who are not at all connected to your existing network and are, in your estimation, Very Important People. Your VIPs may include recruiters, hiring managers, senior executives at prospective employers or “stars” in your industry.
