While talent and skills factor into job success, it’s also important to know the right people. To do so often requires getting out there and networking. The NYT has tailored some how-to tips for the introverted and network-phobic crowd.

Photo by Noah Sussman.

Among the tidbits offered, the article suggests networking in person. Though perhaps intuitive and inviting for the more gregarious worker, this is an especially important step for the shy employee who may prefer to limit the crux of his communications to emails and IM chats. While both are important to establishing and maintaining a relationship, meeting up in-person is vital. The NYT bluntly says to force yourself to do so. Making a bee line to the bar or buffet, if there is one, is a classic way to get the ball rolling. The article also claims that being an introvert can even help your networking efforts.

Introverts are intuitive and analytical. Use that skill. After you have been networking for a while, ask, “What is working? What isn’t? Where do you get the most bang for your buck?”

Check out the full article for the detailed list of tips, then browse our related post on avoiding the seven deadly sins of networking to help get you moving up the ladder.

Networking For The Shy Entrepreneur [New York Times]