Many extroverts can confidently walk into a room and strike up conversations with new people. For an introvert, it’s an entirely different experience.

“Networking was a nightmare for me. Anxiety, shaking legs, and sweaty palms were a common occurrence.” – Claire Taylor.

“The idea of working the room or talking to strangers used to have me planning my escape route before I’d even grabbed my name badge.” – Lyssa-Fêe Crump

Networking can feel paralyzing for many introverts. The pressure to make small talk, join conversations, and exchange LinkedIn details can be exhausting.

In this article, 21 introverts share the tips and tricks that helped them navigate networking and get more value from in-person SEO events.

1. Get all the “shoulds” out of your head

Jade Pruett — Founder of HelloSEO

Stop piling pressure on yourself

In networking situations, I’m anxious about talking to people and feeling bombarded by everything I should be doing. 

I should be meeting everyone in the room. 

I should be able to strike up conversations with anyone. 

But nothing fuels social anxiety like shame. The truth is that I don’t have to meet everyone. My career doesn’t depend on it, and if I only connect with one or two people, or no one, it doesn’t mean I’ve failed.

Give yourself permission to opt out

 If you’re overwhelmed, it’s okay not to meet anyone. Grab a coffee, stand on your own, and take a breather. Usually, someone will approach you or you’ll naturally ease into the environment.

Use lines as natural conversation zones

 Some of my best networking moments happen while standing in line at an event. Lines are great because you’re not interrupting a conversation, and there’s always something to talk about, like what coffee you’re getting or what looks good on the snack table.

2. Set manageable goals

Safia Marmon — Project Lead (Shopify e-commerce) at Sunbowl

I used to find it hard to start conversations at networking events. Most of the time, I’d end up standing alone in a corner. But I’ve slowly found a rhythm that helps me feel more prepared and confident.

Here’s what’s worked for me:

• Research speakers or attendees before the event and make a note of who I want to talk to
• Set manageable goals, like meeting one or two people
• Prepare a few conversation starters in advance
• Look for people who are by themselves or in small groups, as it’s easier to approach them
• Use small details like name tags or books as natural openers

Most people are just as nervous as I am. Once I break the ice, the rest usually flows naturally. It’s still outside my comfort zone, but I’m having better conversations each time.

3. Plan for sensory overload before it drains your energy

Abby Mawhinney — SEO Manager at Blue Array

Sensory overload is one of my biggest challenges at conferences and meetups. As someone who works from home full-time, I’m used to a calm, quiet environment. Stepping into a crowded venue full of bright lights, loud voices, and uncomfortable clothes can feel overwhelming, and that’s before the event starts. 

Here’s what’s helped me navigate networking more confidently:

Look for quiet spaces ahead of time

Many events now offer quiet rooms or chill-out zones. I always check event info or contact the organizers beforehand to ask if a quiet space will be available. Even if there isn’t, stepping outside for five minutes of fresh air makes a huge difference.

Pace yourself with intentional breaks

Networking events are marathons, not sprints. I remind myself it’s okay to take a breather, even for five minutes. 

Use noise-filtering tools

One of my favorite tools is a pair of noise-reducing earplugs. They block out background chatter while letting me hear who I’m talking to. It’s perfect if you’re easily distracted or overwhelmed by multiple voices.

4. Look for people taking notes or standing on the edges during breaks

Caitlin Proctor Huston — Content strategist at Edit Ever After

I usually look for people taking notes during presentations or standing on the periphery of the crowd during breaks. They’re often introverted but engaged, like me. I’ll start a conversation about the speaker or the session to create a genuine connection.

Bringing a friend helps too. At large events, most people either know everyone or no one. It’s easier to join a conversation with a friend than to start one alone.

I also check the event hashtag and engage with people sharing insights. Starting the conversation online often feels easier, and it helps me stay connected after the event.

5. Pick one clear takeaway and ask someone nearby what they thought

Dena Warren — SEO Lead at Techquity

Before the event, I’ll post in Slack groups or check LinkedIn to see who’s attending. Then I send a quick message saying I’ll be there too and would love to say hi. It takes the pressure off once I arrive.

I try not to think about it as “networking” and instead focus on the content. After a talk, I pick one clear takeaway and ask someone nearby what they thought. 

Sometimes, I’ll thank the speaker and share what I learned. It’s a more natural way to start a conversation and doesn’t feel forced.

6. Listening is better than any elevator pitch

Rewati Khare — SEO Specialist

I treat live events like strategic missions, not social free-for-alls. My pre-game ritual involves researching the speaker list, preparing two solid conversation starters, and scouting out the quietest coffee corner as my home base.

Instead of “working the room,” I aim for two to three meaningful conversations, and I’m thrilled if one of them isn’t with the barista. 

Listening is an introvert’s superpower, and it makes a bigger impression than any elevator pitch. I might vanish midway through the after-party, but I’ll follow up with a thoughtful LinkedIn message that I’ve spell-checked and optimized with emojis. 

7. Use grounding tools to stay present 

Cassandra Pairis — Brand & Web Designer

Some people are born to work the room, but I’m not one of them. Regardless, I’ve found a few tips that help me feel grounded, less panicky, and more like myself at conferences and meetups:

• Taking deep breaths and drinking water calms my nervous system and stops the spiral before it begins
• Wearing an outfit and hairstyle I feel confident in, so I can focus on the conversation, instead of fussing about my appearance
• Writing a few go-to conversation starters to ease the awkwardness
• Take grounding tools like a pen and notebook to stay present when my brain wants to escape
• Using Popl to avoid fumbling with business cards or typing out social handles under pressure
• Taking breaks without guilt. I might step outside, skip a session, or just breathe in the hallway when it all feels too much
• Redefining success as one or two meaningful conversations, not collecting contacts

Most importantly, I remind myself that I belong in the room, even if I’m not the loudest.

8. Go alone at least once

Meghan Pahinui — Sr. Content Designer & Marketer at Moz

One of the best things I did as an introvert was attend a conference alone. When I go with people I know, I tend to stick with them. But going alone gives me that little push to start conversations and join in.

I always start small with a quick “hello” to the person next to me or a compliment to someone in line. Some of my best conference chats started with “I like your sweater” or “Are you from here?”

I schedule breaks to recharge during the conference because I need downtime to manage my energy. It’s better to undercommit and join in later than overextend and burn out.

If I’m not comfortable talking to someone in person or if they’re in a group, I’ll find their name and send a message on LinkedIn after the event. It’s a low-pressure way to connect and still have meaningful conversations.

9. Use props to remove the awkwardness of small talk

Sai Deshmukh — SEO Director

I’ve found three solid tips that improved my networking skills:

Take on a role to make networking easier

Volunteering at events (checking people in or moderating panels) gives me a purpose. I don’t have to force conversations or wander awkwardly. It’s a built-in way to meet people, especially organizers and speakers, without the pressure of a cold approach.

Spend more time listening

People love talking about themselves. If I listen and ask thoughtful follow-ups, they walk away thinking I’m charismatic, even if I said almost nothing.

Use conversation props to break the ice naturally

One trick I love is bringing a subtle “prop” that sparks curiosity. At one event, I wore a vintage fedora with a pin. Within minutes, someone asked about it, and we talked about retro fashion. Another time, I carried a pen shaped like a toy pistol. When someone laughed and asked, “Is that a gun or a pen?” it turned into a chat about quirky office gadgets.

10. Attend a smaller event the day before

Dani Leitner — SEO Consultant

Attending conferences as an introvert can feel scary, and that’s totally normal.

What helped me most was attending a workshop or meetup the day before the main event. It’s a smaller, more relaxed setting where I can get comfortable and meet a few people ahead of time. That shared experience gave me something in common, so when the main event starts, I’m not walking in alone because I already know someone, and they might even introduce me to others.

You don’t have to force yourself to walk up to random people just to have someone to eat lunch with. Having dinner alone one evening is a great way to recharge and enjoy some alone time.

11. Break the ice with small gifts

Jeanne Tan — SEO Strategist

Here are a few things that helped me network better at industry events:

Use a visual cue to stand out:

If people don’t remember my name, they’ll remember “the lady with the red hair.” It has proven to be a good conversation starter. I’ll say hello, and the first thing I usually hear is, “I love your hair.” As an introvert, it helps to let people come to me instead of making the first move.

Offer small gifts to make a lasting impression:

At international events, I bring small tokens from my home country like magnets or keychains with a sticker on the back that includes my name and social handle. 

When I meet keynote speakers or big industry names, I gift them one and say, “I’ve been following your work, and it’s an honor to meet you.” Then I ask if I can send a connection request, and most say yes.

12. Prepare questions to avoid thinking on the spot

Claire Taylor — Co-Founder at TU Marketing

As someone who’s always struggled in group situations, networking was a nightmare. Anxiety, shaking legs, and sweaty palms were a regular thing. I’d often leave early or sit in a corner staring at my phone, pretending I had urgent work.

I still don’t love networking, but I’ve found a few tactics that help me manage it better:

Prepare questions to take the pressure off thinking on the spot

I carry a list of questions I can ask people. Having a few prompts ready makes conversations easier to manage.

Set a small goal to stay focused and grounded

 I give myself a target, like talking to two or three people. It gives me structure without overwhelming me.

Head to the coffee station to ease into the room

I always grab coffee first because it gives me something to do and helps me spot friendly faces in the hallways.

Step into a role to take the pressure off being “yourself”

Sometimes I pretend I’m playing a character. It sounds silly, but it helps me loosen up and get out of my head.

13. Join supportive communities

Bengü Sarıca Dinçer — Search Engine Optimization Manager at Designmodo

I used to consider myself an introvert, especially when networking at live events. Talking to people I didn’t know felt overwhelming, but I also wanted to learn from others and grow my network. 

Finding a supportive community changed everything for me. Groups like Women in Tech SEO made me feel safe and accepted. It’s a great space to find folks attending events, so you know someone when you walk in the room.

My advice for other introverts:

• Take it step by step. Showing up is a win, and you don’t have to talk to anyone.
• Try international events. They might seem intimidating, but I found them easier than local ones.
• Start small. Even a simple “I liked your talk” or “Where are you from?” can spark a conversation.
• Don’t fear judgment. Most people are kind, and if someone judges you, that’s on them, not you.

14. Wear something unique

Kari DePhillips — CEO at The Content Factory

My best tip for introverts networking at in-person events is to wear something unique. It could be a bold pair of shoes, standout accessories, or a cool blazer.

I’ve got a red leopard blazer that always does the trick. People walk up and comment on it, and that kicks off the conversation for me.

If you’re uncomfortable starting conversations with strangers, give them a reason to start one with you.

15. Seek speaking opportunities

Tom Winter — Co-Founder at SEOwind

I know public speaking sounds like the last thing an introvert would want to do, but hear me out.

As an introvert, being just another face in the crowd can be exhausting. Walking up to random groups and trying to “work the room” often feels paralyzing. But when I’m a speaker, the whole dynamic shifts and surprisingly, it suits me well.

Instead of forcing introductions, people approach me to say “great session” or ask questions. These are low-pressure, and often more meaningful than hours of mingling. I’ve had better networking moments ten minutes after speaking than I ever did just roaming the floor.

Even when I’m not speaking, I use the same strategy. I go to talks and approach the speaker with a thoughtful question or comment. It gives me a shared context and makes it easier to start a conversation.

16. Connect with others going to the event

Erin Simmons — Managing Director at Women in Tech SEO Community

I always do some pre-work before a conference to build predictable connections and feel more confident walking in.

Here are a few ways I make those pre-event connections:

• Post on LinkedIn using the event hashtag, asking if anyone else is attending and wants a conference buddy or small group to connect with.
• Check for any official pre-connection activities the event might offer.
• Join professional communities where people are already talking about the event. In Women in Tech SEO, we create temporary Slack channels for events like WTSFest, MozCon, and BrightonSEO, so members can share tips, make plans, and feel supported before and during the event.

A few digital connections ahead of time can lower the barrier to in-person interactions. It’s a lot easier to walk in when you know someone’s already looking forward to seeing you there.

PS: You can see WTS founder Areej AbuAli live at MozCon London, where she will deliver a talk on how to launch, grow, and scale a community that supports your brand. Get your MozCon London tickets for only 350 GBP.

17. Do the groundwork before the event

Jasmine Jade — Freelance Content Strategist

If I followed the classic “just be yourself” advice, I’d show up to events and leave without speaking to anyone. So I’ve learned to be intentional before I even get there.

Here’s how I approach networking as an introvert:

When connecting with attendees

I start by checking who’s posting about the event. If there’s someone I want to meet, I’ll message them and say, “Hey! I saw you’re attending this event. I’ll be there too and hopefully we bump into each other.” Sometimes, they find me before I find them.

I also try to have an event buddy. A familiar face can boost confidence—someone to sit with, chat to during breaks (instead of doomscrolling), and yes, take your photos for social media.

When connecting with speakers

 It's the same idea, just with a bit more prep. I’ll ask a thoughtful question during their session, something that shows I’ve been following their work.

If I’m too shy to say hi in person, I’ll take a photo during their talk, post it with a short takeaway, tag them, and follow up with a message: “I was at your session and appreciated your insights. I just wanted to connect and say thank you.” It's low-pressure but just as meaningful.

18. Use ChatGPT to ideate thoughtful questions and compliments

Nofisat Dopemu —SEO & Digital Marketing Strategist

For anyone who feels terrified about networking, here are a few things I’d recommend trying if you want to attend an event:

• Start by taking the pressure off: I focus on attending and observing, giving me time to adjust to the environment before jumping into conversations.
• Take a genuine interest in others: I look for someone sitting alone or in a small group, and start with a simple question or compliment.
• Use ChatGPT for prep: I’ve used ChatGPT to generate thoughtful questions or compliments that feel natural and sincere.
• Check in with yourself: Throughout the event, I pause to see how I feel. If I need to reset, I find a quiet space to recharge.

19. Arrive early before it gets noisy

Lyssa-Fêe Crump — Head of Marketing

As an introvert in marketing and tech, I’ve had to find a way around networking. The idea of “working the room” or striking up conversations with strangers used to have me planning my escape before I’d even grabbed my name badge.

Here are a few strategies that helped me:

Arrive early to ease into the room

Getting there early helps. It’s easier to start conversations before the room fills up and gets noisy. Being part of the first chats feels more natural than trying to jump in later.

Set one small goal

What’s helped me is lowering the pressure. I set a small goal to have a couple of real conversations. Not a dozen and not with everyone. Just a few meaningful moments, and then I retreat for a biscuit and a breather.

Build in quiet time

I always build in breaks like stepping outside, taking a lap around the venue, or hiding in the loos for five minutes of silence. I remind myself that I don’t need to be “on” the whole time. I’m allowed to show up just as I am: thoughtful, curious, and a bit quiet.

Give someone a compliment

One thing that always helps is giving someone a genuine compliment. Not to break the ice or be strategic but to be kind. It softens the moment, and it helps me make a real connection.

20. Find a quiet place to retreat when you’re overstimulated

Christy Correll — B2B SaaS Copywriter & Brand Messaging Strategist

As an introvert, or more accurately, an ambivert who leans introverted, budgeting my energy is non-negotiable. Setting realistic goals makes a huge difference, because if I try to build my network too quickly or say yes to everything, I’ll burn out fast.

Here are a few networking tips I’ve found useful:

Pack for recovery

I always travel with noise-canceling headphones, earplugs, sunglasses, and an eye mask to manage sensory overload. I also scout out quiet spaces at the venue so I have somewhere to retreat if things get overstimulating.

Don’t try to do it all

I don’t need to attend every session, meal, or mixer, especially at multi-day events. Sometimes, I’ll skip an afternoon of talks to be fully present at dinner. 

Avoid travelling during your regular sleeping hours

If your schedule allows, avoid booking flights during your regular sleeping hours. I don’t handle jet lag well, so I try to arrive early to adjust. It’s not always possible, but when I can, it makes a big difference.

21. Stick to small groups and have an exit strategy 

Purna Virji  — Principal Consultant & Global Program Manager at LinkedIn

I’ve spoken at conferences worldwide but still need to disappear into a bathroom stall to recharge between sessions. 

People are always surprised when I tell them I’m an introvert. I’ve just gotten good at being “on” during events, so good that people assume I’m naturally extroverted. 

But that performance takes a real toll, so these strategies have become essential for me.

Find common ground

It could be a shared hometown, a similar role, or even a mutual frustration with a platform. Finding common ground makes things feel easier and helps me relax.

Take breaks

I schedule 3–5 minute “bathroom breaks” between networking sessions. Sometimes I sit in my car or find a quiet hallway. Just a few minutes of silence buys me another hour of energy.

Stick to small groups

I gravitate toward roundtables, smaller breakout sessions, or coffee with just a few people. It’s way less overwhelming than trying to work a giant networking mixer.

Have an exit strategy

When I feel my social battery getting low, I use a gentle excuse like, “I promised I’d meet someone at 3 pm.” It’s polite and gives me an easy way to leave.

I plan for recovery

After a big event, I block out 1–2 days with no calls or obligations. I use the time to rest, reflect, and recharge. 

If networking held you back from showing up, I hope this article helps to lift that pressure. You’re not alone, and you don’t have to “work the room” to make meaningful connections.

MozCon London was built with this in mind. It’s a smaller audience (250 attendees) focused on intentional connections and plenty of opportunities for 1:1 time with speakers. The revamped MozCon format is designed to help you get the most out of the experience, whether you’re introverted, ambivert, or just not into forced small talk.

If you’re ready to join us, we’d love to see you there. Use this discount code to get your ticket for £350.