This Month’s LEAP Recap: Networking for Introverts
This month’s LEAP Roundtable was all about networking for introverts—how to approach connection-building when traditional networking feels overwhelming, transactional, or downright exhausting. Shannon guided attendees through a conversation that redefined networking not as lead generation, but as relationship building rooted in curiosity, care, and mutual support.
What Is Networking, Really?
Networking is the process of building and nurturing professional relationships to exchange information, resources, support, and opportunities. Networking isn’t about closing a deal—it’s about showing up with clarity, curiosity, and compassion. It’s about helping and being helped.
Why It’s Hard for Introverts
If networking leaves you drained, you’re not alone. Introverts may struggle with traditional networking formats:
Small talk feels tedious or uncomfortable
Big events are overstimulating
One-on-one conversations feel more meaningful
You need time to process conversations and recover energy
Introversion is not the same as shyness—it’s about how you recharge, not whether you're outgoing.
Broadening the Definition: “Anything Can Be Networking”
Challenge yourself to rethink where networking happens. Networking isn’t just at formal events—it can happen:
In the preschool pick-up line
At the hair salon
Over coffee with a friend
Anywhere you’re sharing your goals and building connection counts. Networking is any interaction in which you share who you are and what you're working on.
Prep Before You Connect
Networking is more successful when you’re prepared:
Set a Goal: Maybe you want to meet one new collaborator or practice your elevator pitch.
Make a List: Write down who you want to meet—types of people or specific names.
Know Your Message: Craft a clear, simple way to explain who you are, what you do, and who you do it for.
Bring a Cheerleader: Partnering with an extrovert can ease the burden of initiating conversations at events.
Follow-Up is Where the Magic Happens
Introverts often dread the follow-up even more than the event.
Quality > Quantity: You don’t have to follow up with everyone—just the people you genuinely want to build relationships with.
Consent-Based Connections: Always ask before making an introduction.
Be a Resource: Share articles, events, or contacts that might be helpful—even months later.
Let Others Help You: Keep a list of what you need so you can answer, “How can I help you?” with ease.
Key Takeaways
Networking is Relationship Building: Focus on building trust, not collecting business cards.
There Are No Rules: You can skip events, follow up months later, or network from your couch.
Being Helped is a Gift to Others: People want to help—let them.
Lead with Curiosity: Learning about others is often more powerful than pitching yourself.
Join Us Next Time (Quarterly!)
The next LEAP Roundtable will be held Mon, December 8th at 1pm EST and will focus on year-end reviews and 2026 goal setting. We’ll talk strategy, data, and how to plan for what’s next in your work or business.
Don't miss our monthly roundtable. RSVP now for updates.
Go Deeper with Our New LEAP Coaching Club
Introducing the LEAP Coaching Club with Shannon Parris Consulting! This bi-weekly group coaching program is designed for aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs seeking strategic guidance, goal setting, and accountability. Each session builds on Shannon Parris Consulting's proven business systems.
Details:
$79/month for a 6-month commitment — or choose your price from a sliding scale
Groups capped at 10 participants to ensure personalized support
Ideal for those seeking consistent, paid support but not yet ready for 1:1 consulting
Want to join? Email hello@shannonparris.com to secure your spot!
