Is this Canberra’s best networking event for introverts?

Posted on 7 August, 2024

Picture this: you walk into a networking event, heart racing, palms sweaty, and the urge to bolt out the door is strong. Sound familiar to any introverts out there?

But here’s a secret: networking doesn’t have to be terrifying.

I get it. The typical networking event can be a minefield of anxiety-inducing scenarios. The thought of making small talk with strangers, remembering names, and seamlessly integrating into conversations can be overwhelming. I remember this one event I went to, where I kept mistakenly referring to the woman next to me as Laura instead of her actual name. By the end of the event, she finally mustered the courage to introduce herself: ‘My name is Liz, by the way!’ And despite the utter embarrassment I felt, the fact we both laughed it off made me feel a little better. It was then she also admitted to feeling anxious.

It’s not that introverts dislike people; rather, the prospect of social interaction, especially in large, unfamiliar settings, can be exhausting. The fear of awkward silences or saying the wrong thing often looms large, making it tempting to avoid these situations altogether.

Yet, networking is an essential part of personal and professional growth. It opens doors to new opportunities, helps build valuable connections, and provides a platform for sharing ideas and experiences. The challenge lies in finding a way to engage in these activities without feeling overwhelmed.

This is where Friends With Her comes in. Founded by Claudia Harrison McKee and Madeline Bonfini, this networking event series offers a refreshing alternative to the typical formal and often intimidating networking scenarios. Born from their own experiences of needing a space to share career ambitions, passions, and ideas, Claudia and Madeline created Friends With Her to foster genuine connections in a relaxed, small-group setting.

The events are designed to be inclusive and welcoming, making them perfect for introverts who may feel out of place at more traditional networking events. Unlike typical gatherings that often cater to specific industries or high-level professionals, Friends With Her is open to people from all walks of life, regardless of their career stage or industry. This inclusivity helps create a diverse environment where everyone can feel comfortable and valued.

Why Friends With Her is ideal for introverts:

• The events are structured to be more like casual mingles rather than formal networking sessions. This laid-back approach helps reduce the pressure to perform and allows for more natural interactions. There’s no need to worry about making a perfect first impression or delivering a polished elevator pitch. Instead, you can simply be yourself.
• Smaller groups mean fewer people to interact with, which can be less daunting for introverts. It’s easier to have meaningful conversations and connect with others on a deeper level.
• The focus of Friends With Her is on building a community of like-minded individuals. Whether you’re discussing career goals, hobbies, or life in Canberra, you’re likely to find common ground with other attendees. This shared sense of purpose can make conversations more engaging and less intimidating.
• The events are open to people of all gender identities, and there’s a strong emphasis on inclusivity. This means you can feel comfortable attending, knowing that the space is welcoming to everyone.

But how do I make the most out of it, I hear you ask? Consider the following:

• Instead of aiming to meet everyone, focus on having a few meaningful conversations. This approach can make the experience less overwhelming and more rewarding.
• Think about some topics you’d like to discuss. It could be related to your career, hobbies, or even something light-hearted like a favourite local spot. Having a few ideas in mind can help ease the anxiety of initiating conversations.
• Authenticity goes a long way. People appreciate genuine interactions, so don’t feel like you have to put on a façade. Share your true interests and experiences.
• If you meet someone you connect with, don’t hesitate to follow up. A simple message or email can help solidify the connection and potentially lead to a lasting friendship or professional relationship.

Whether you’re new to Canberra, navigating a career change, or just looking to expand your social circle, these events offer a safe space to connect with others. So, take a deep breath and step out of your comfort zone. You might just find that networking isn’t as scary as it seems – and who knows, you might even enjoy it!