Most of us have seen a new professional look anxious as soon as we suggest they go to an industry mixer or a big company networking event.
For many early career professionals, especially introverts, the word “networking” brings to mind forced small talk, aggressive card-swapping, and pretending to be loud and outgoing. If we push a one-size-fits-all approach, we might make them want to avoid networking altogether.
Our job is not to force anyone into a mold that doesn’t fit. Instead, we can help them see that networking can look different for everyone, and their natural style might be their biggest strength.
Help them see that being authentic builds trust much faster.
When junior employees try to act overly outgoing because they think that is what networking requires, others notice. This often leads to awkward moments, social exhaustion, and weak connections that don’t last because they’re not genuine.
Let’s encourage them to be themselves. Encourage them to think differently about networking by showing them other ways to connect:
The Informational Interview: For those who thrive in quiet, one-on-one settings, a casual 20-minute coffee chat with a colleague is highly effective.
Thought Leadership: For those who prefer writing, creating a thoughtful and intentional presence on professional platforms like LinkedIn is a great way to start.
Teach them to network naturally.
Rather than trying to change their quiet nature, show them how it can be a real advantage.
If a mentee is a good observer or listener, teach them to use that skill to ask thoughtful, open-ended questions. Most senior leaders enjoy sharing their stories, and a young professional who listens well will stand out much more than someone who tries to talk the most.
If they prefer structure instead of uncertainty, guide them away from busy happy hours and suggest:
Small, specialized industry workshops.
Corporate volunteer groups or internal committees.
Task forces where connection happens naturally through shared work.
Teach them to build at their pace.
New professionals sometimes treat LinkedIn connection numbers like a scoreboard, trying to collect hundreds of contacts that aren’t meaningful. Quality matters more than quantity. A few real, lasting professional relationships will help their careers much more than a long list of people who barely know them.
Encourage them to build a network they can keep up with, so they do not feel overwhelmed. When their networking style matches their natural energy, it stops feeling like a tiring task and becomes a lasting career habit.
The power of the authentic network.
True coachability is not about changing someone’s personality. It’s about helping them use their strengths.
When we help early career professionals find their own networking strengths, we help them build real confidence. They move from feeling anxious to becoming well-connected, confident people who know how to create a community that supports their growth.
Conversation Kit for Managers & Mentors
Use the conversation kit below to run more impactful one-on-one and group sessions in less time. The kits give you intentional articles and discussion prompts to guide early-career professionals and accelerate their growth.