Why introverts don't need to fake it to make it

I write weekly about the strategies, habits, and tactics around cultivating the connections that matter to you.

Let me tell you something that might surprise you. Some of the most successful networkers I know are introverts. They host regular dinners, build deep business relationships, and create opportunities just as effectively as their extroverted counterparts.

Here's the thing everyone gets wrong about networking: it's not about being the loudest person in the room.

I used to drag myself to networking events, clutching my water cup while the other “more social” people bounced between conversations. I felt broken. Like I was missing some crucial people-ing gene.

Turns out, I wasn't broken (ok, well not on that front). I was just playing the wrong game for me.

Your introversion is a different approach

Being an introvert means you naturally operate differently in networking situations:

You build deeper connections. While others collect business cards, you have real conversations. That one-on-one coffee meeting where you actually listen? That's where trust and opportunities come from.

You think before you speak. In a world of constant noise, thoughtful responses stand out. When you contribute to conversations, people pay attention.

You prefer quality over quantity. Your smaller network can be just as powerful as someone's massive contact list. Research shows meaningful relationships matter more than hundreds of shallow connections.

Work with your natural tendencies

Success for introverts is about working with your style, not against it:

Find your social power zones. One-on-one meetings instead of networking happy hours. Small group dinners instead of conference mixers. Focus your energy where you naturally connect well.

Prepare intentionally. Research who's attending events. Book meetings in advance. Prepare thoughtful questions. Have your perfect intro ready. Preparation reduces anxiety and lets your personality come through.

Use the bridge strategy. At overwhelming events, identify two or three people you'd like to meet for coffee later. "This is pretty chaotic! Want to continue this conversation over coffee tomorrow?"

Become the host. Control the environment. Create intimate dinner parties. Structure conversations around meaningful topics. Network on your terms.

The business world needs different approaches to relationship building. While some people broadcast, you listen. While others network frantically, you build relationships intentionally.

Your networking style doesn't need to mirror anyone else's. It needs to work for you.

Start with one person this week. Send that follow-up message. Schedule that coffee meeting. Host that small dinner. The most successful networkers know exactly which rooms work best for them.

Until next week, Zvi

P.S. Loud doesn’t equal effective - unless we’re talking karaoke!

On YouTube: The 2-Minute Scrollback Habit That Rebuilt My Network in 30 Days

Ever feel awkward reaching out to someone you haven’t talked to in ages? In this video, I share the super-simple 30-Day Scrollback Challenge that helped me reconnect with 90+ people—without the cringe or overthinking.

What you’ll learn:

• The surprising reason we avoid reconnecting (and why it’s all in our heads)

• How the “liking gap” makes people happier to hear from you than you think

• Step-by-step for the 30-Day Scrollback Challenge

• Simple message templates that don’t feel forced or needy

• The results you can expect after just a month

You can see all my videos and interviews on my channel! If you find these helpful, I’d appreciate a like, subscribe, and share with a friend, colleague, or enemy.

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