Networking Across Personalities: What It Means to 3 Different Professionals

 Towards the end of my undergraduate program, I knew networking was “the thing to do” for my career. I had my elevator pitch ready, and I could hold a conversation, but beyond that, I wasn’t sure what else to say.

It’s expected of professionals to network, but what does that actually entail? Furthermore, how do we foster connection among diverse personalities? I talked with three professionals, each describing as an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between, for more insights. 

Below you’ll meet Shelby Garlock (introvert), Trisha Thommi (“introverted extrovert”), and Haley Flippo (extrovert). They share their networking misconceptions and strategies of what works best for their personality type.

Recharging Inward to Energize Outward - Meet Shelby Garlock

Shelby Garlock is a Customer Success and CRM Strategy Leader. She works as a consultant and partners with companies to build all things marketing and customer experience. Garlock has spent over 15 years helping companies grow through customer-centric marketing and retention strategy.

“While I’m energized by collaborating with others on projects, I consider myself an introvert and need quiet time to reflect and recharge. I recognized early in my career to balance my interactions with others and my personal time as it helps me be intentional in how I connect with others,” Garlock said.

First Impression

Garlock’s first impression of networking felt transactional and overwhelming. At large, crowded events, she viewed it as space for self-promotion and idle chatter, which isn’t like her at all. With a new understanding, she asks thoughtful questions, actively listens, and seeks opportunities for mutual value.

“Eventually, I came to understand that true networking is about building meaningful connections—finding ways to offer support or receive it in return,” Garlock said.

Engaging Through an Uplifting Lens

Garlock prefers one-on-one conversations, which can be challenging in larger groups. Her candid strategy is to strike up conversation with someone who looks just as uncomfortable as she feels. She approaches networking with curiosity instead of a rigid goal.

“I look to learn, support, or exchange ideas rather than immediately seek something specific. Over time, I’ve found that this open-ended approach builds stronger, more genuine relationships,” Garlock said.

Small Interactions With Big Impact

Networking, however, doesn’t always occur in a massive space. Garlock said LinkedIn has connected her with people she wouldn’t have met without the platform. In fact, her best networking memory includes sending and receiving quick exchanges over resonating content. Even better, she says, is when the interactions lead to virtual meetings and a naturally growing relationship.

“My experience is a powerful reminder that impactful networking doesn’t always happen in person—sometimes, the most valuable connections start with a thoughtful comment or a simple DM,” Garlock said.

For other introverts, Garlock reminds them to “play to their strengths.”

“Be a great listener, ask thoughtful questions, and follow up with intention,” Garlock said.

Connecting Without Being ‘On’ - Meet Trisha Thommi

Trisha Thommi is the Co-Founder and Lead UX Researcher at NovaXperience, a boutique firm specializing in user experience research and design. She likes to describe herself as an “introverted extrovert.” Thommi can hold her own in a large room, but she loves deeper one-on-one conversations.

“I seek meaningful dialogue and look for spaces where I can be authentic. That balance has helped me build stronger, more intentional relationships without feeling the pressure to always be ‘on,’” Thommi said.

First Impression

Early in her career, Thommi believed networking had to be loud, fast-paced, and a tad performative. With this impression, she thought the best networkers were the most outgoing people in the room. Over time, she discovered that connection comes in many forms—and other methods of relationship-building that feel more like her.

“I realized listening, being curious, asking thoughtful questions, and following up with intention can be just as powerful,” Thommi said.

Fostering Deep Connections with Authenticity

After Thommi moved from Chicago to Kansas City, she attended a What She Said (@whatshesaidinc) KC Visionaries Dinner. She only knew one person going, but left that night feeling like she had “found her people.”

“The energy in the room was electric, yet what made it memorable was the depth of connection. That single event sparked friendships, collaborations, and a deeper appreciation for the KC community,” Thommi said.

Thommi doesn’t mind larger gatherings, but she thrives in smaller meetups. Casual coffee conversations, LinkedIn messages, and emails have led her to authentic connections. Like Garlock, Thommi doesn’t always approach with an agenda.

“I like to show up with a genuine interest in getting to know someone's story, perspective, or passions,” Thommi said.

A Note for Both Personalities

For other introverted extroverts, or someone in between, Thommi advises to “protect your energy, but don’t underestimate your presence.”

“You don't have to be the loudest person in the room to be memorable. Your strength often lies in meaningful conversations, thoughtful follow-ups, and your ability to really listen. Give yourself permission to network in ways that feel natural to you, whether that's one-on-one coffee chats, smaller group settings, or even just connecting virtually first,” Thommi emphasized.

For extroverts, Thommi says they have “the unique opportunity to be the bridge.”

“Your energy can help bring others into the conversation, especially those who may need a little more time to warm up. By creating space for quieter voices, you're not just including more people—you're enriching the conversation!”

Extending a Hand While Slowing Down - Meet Haley Flippo

Haley Flippo is an Account Director at Grapevine Designs. In Fall 2024, she merged her company, Belleview Branding, with Grapevine Designs to expand reach and capabilities.

“While I naturally lean toward being an extrovert, I sometimes find myself right in the middle—balancing outgoing energy with moments of reflection. It has been exciting to see my network grow and feel like I’m a part of something bigger,” Flippo said.

First Impression

Flippo felt nervous yet excited for her first networking experience. She eagerly wanted to be part of something new. Once she met others and heard their stories, she “was hooked.”

“[Networking] was incredibly interesting and inspiring. Soon after, I found myself really enjoying it and wanting more. I actively sought out new groups and asked the people I connected with for recommendations on other events or communities,” Flippo said.

New Allies to Lasting Friends

Flippo enjoys attending events and holding one-on-one conversations. Larger gatherings offer her more opportunities to connect while individual conversations help her know someone deeper. That said, even as a naturally outgoing personality, she prefers smaller interactions to build something more.

“What I love most about networking isn’t just making connections; it’s turning those connections into genuine friendships. I often walk away from conversations feeling like we barely talked about work and instead spent the whole time bonding—almost like we’re on our way to becoming best friends!” Flippo said.

Beyond the Surface as an Extrovert

For someone extroverted like Flippo who still values meaningful connections, she encourages them to “slow down and go deeper.”

“It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of meeting lots of people, but the most impactful connections often come from taking the time to truly listen and engage on a personal level,” Flippo said.

For someone introverted, Flippo reminds them that people with her communication style still “enjoy creating space for real conversation.”

“I’m not just about surface-level small talk—I value honest, meaningful interactions and want to understand who you are beyond your job title. You don’t have to match my energy; just show up as yourself, and we’ll find a natural rhythm,” Flippo said.

Making Space for All Personalities

Contrary to popular belief, networking doesn’t have to be a staged conversation with pitch-prepped notecards. There’s not a single right way to foster connection and build a network, but that’s what makes the opportunity exciting. For all professionals, career-path shifters, city transplants, and new graduates, there’s an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between personality waiting to meet—and support—your unique self.

“Networking has taught me that everyone brings something valuable to the table, and that genuine curiosity is the key to building lasting connections, both personally and professionally. My network has become a true lifeline; whenever I face a challenge or need guidance, I know I can reach out to someone who can either help directly or point me to the right person.”

- Shelby Garlock

“Networking has helped me trust that I can add value just by being myself. I've learned that connection isn't about having the perfect pitch; it's about being present, listening well, and staying curious. The more I lean into that, the more meaningful my relationships—and the opportunities they present—become.”

-Trisha Thommi

“Through networking, I’ve learned that I genuinely thrive on connection—not just professionally, but personally. It’s helped me recognize how much I enjoy learning about others' journeys, challenges, and passions. I've become a better listener, more curious, and more intentional in how I engage with people.

"I’ve also learned that everyone brings something unique to the table, even if it’s not immediately obvious. Some of the most valuable connections I’ve made started from unexpected conversations. Networking has shown me the importance of approaching every interaction with openness and authenticity—you never know who might inspire you, teach you something new, or become a lasting friend or collaborator.”

- Haley Flippo