The Art of Networking: Busting Myths for Diverse Professionals

I’ll be the first to admit it—I’m an introvert. And even though I work in HR, where "peopling" is literally part of my job, interacting with people all day can be draining. I get home, and the last thing I want to do is engage in more small talk or make new connections. So, when people talk about networking, my first instinct is usually, "Do I really have to?"

And it's not just the energy drain. Networking brings up all sorts of other challenges for me:

• I always worry people think I want something from them. Let’s be honest, who hasn’t felt that way?

• It’s hard to keep connections going. Life happens, people are busy, and sometimes months (or years) go by before I follow up with someone.

• I rarely find people who can relate to the phase of life I’m in or my cultural background. Networking often feels like walking into rooms where no one shares your experiences.

• And did I mention that "peopling" drains me?

If you’ve ever felt the same way, you’re not alone. But here’s the twist—networking doesn’t have to look like what we’ve been taught. It doesn’t have to mean endless happy hours or awkward small talk. It’s time to bust some networking myths, especially for those of us who feel like we don’t naturally fit into traditional networking spaces.

Myth #1: Networking Is Only for Extroverts

As someone who gets drained by socializing, the idea of networking events feels like signing up for torture. But here’s the truth: networking is not about being the loudest voice in the room. You don’t need to be the life of the party to make meaningful connections.

In fact, introverts have a unique strength when it comes to networking—we’re great listeners. We don’t need to work the room and shake every hand. What we can do is form deeper, more meaningful one-on-one relationships. So, instead of trying to connect with everyone, focus on a few key people. Reach out with genuine interest, listen more than you speak, and build real connections.

Myth #2: Networking Is Always Self-Serving or Just for Career Advancement

I’ll be honest—this one’s a big mental block for me. I hate the idea that people think I’m only reaching out because I want something from them. And, in turn, I worry about others thinking I’m transactional in my approach. It’s easy to think that people only connect when they’re looking for their next job or trying to climb the career ladder. But the truth is, networking can—and should—be about more than just your next career move.

Networking is about mutual benefit. It’s about building relationships; learning from others, sharing knowledge, and offering support. Some of my most valuable connections have come not from trying to get ahead in my career but from building genuine friendships and collaborations. These relationships become long-term sources of advice, mentorship, and even personal growth.

It’s okay to network when you’re not looking for something. In fact, that’s often when the best connections happen—when the focus is on building mutual respect and support, not just a transaction.

Myth #3: You Can’t Network If You’re Behind in Your Career

Sometimes, I feel like I’m constantly playing catch-up—whether that’s because of life circumstances, or the simple fact that "peopling" isn’t my thing. I used to think that networking was only for people who were already at the top of their game, who had something impressive to show off. But here’s the thing: every connection counts, no matter where you are.

As the Jamaican saying goes, every mickle mek a muckle—small consistent efforts can lead to big results. Start with one connection at a time. Don’t worry about catching up; just focus on building relationships and being open to what can come from them. You never know which small step will lead to a big opportunity.

Myth #4: You Have to Network with People Just Like You

If you’re like me, you’ve probably been in situations where it feels like no one in the room shares your cultural background, life experiences, or challenges. This can make networking feel awkward, even intimidating. But here’s the truth: while it’s important to find people who understand you, it’s also incredibly valuable to connect with those who bring different perspectives.

Some of the most meaningful connections I’ve made have been with people whose experiences were completely different from mine. It’s in these diverse conversations that the most growth happens. People from different industries, cultures, or backgrounds offer fresh insights and opportunities you might never have considered on your own.

But let’s be real—if that sounds way too scary, and you want to ease the discomfort of networking across vast differences, I’m working on something just for you. One One Cocoa is a new platform designed to bring together people with similar cultural heritage and experiences. It’s networking made relatable, inclusive, and comfortable—perfect for introverts, diverse professionals, and anyone looking for genuine, lasting connections without the awkwardness. Stay tuned!

Myth #5: Networking Only Happens at Formal Events

I used to think that networking meant showing up at industry mixers or networking events and making myself talk to strangers. For someone like me, that’s the definition of uncomfortable. But networking happens in everyday life—often in the most unexpected ways.

I’ve had meaningful conversations while waiting for my kid’s football practice to end, attending events with family and friends, and even standing in the checkout line at the supermarket (bonding over skyrocketing food prices is definitely a thing). Networking doesn’t have to be formal or forced. It can be as simple as reaching out to someone you admire on LinkedIn, offering feedback on a project, or sharing common interests. Build relationships where you feel comfortable—not where you think you’re “supposed” to be.

So, What’s the Point?

Networking doesn’t have to look like the standard, extrovert-centric picture that we’ve all seen. It’s not about attending big events or collecting business cards. It’s about making connections that matter, in ways that feel authentic to you.

If you’re an introvert like me, or if the thought of networking makes you want to hide under a desk, remember this: you don’t have to do it the way everyone else does. Start with small steps, build genuine relationships, and don’t worry about catching up to everyone else. It’s not a race—it’s a journey.

And along that journey, know that “wah fi yuh cyaan un fi yuh.” What’s meant for you will find its way to you—at your own pace, and on your own terms.

~Meisha