Let’s talk about networking. The word alone can make even the most ambitious personal brand builder want to disappear into the group. Because for many people, especially introverts or those who find socialising exhausting, the idea of “putting yourself out there” can feel more like a punishment than a strategy. But what if networking didn’t have to feel like that?
What if you could build genuine, powerful connections, both online and in person, without pretending to be someone you’re not?
That’s exactly what we explored in this week’s Brand You Podcast, featuring Charlie Lawson, author of The Unnatural Networker and a self-confessed introvert who’s made it his mission to help others like him succeed in a world that often rewards loud voices and bold moves. You can listen to the episode here.
Charlie’s approach is refreshingly real. He doesn’t teach you how to “fake it till you make it” or turn into the life of the party. Instead, he encourages people to network in ways that feel authentic, grounded, and (dare we say) even enjoyable.
Why Networking Still Matters (Even in the Age of Social Media)
Here at Quirq, we’re all about personal branding and we focus on helping personal brands shine online, but that also rolls over into the real world too. Learning to create a presence that feels like you, online, offline, wherever you show up. But as much as we love a strong LinkedIn post or a bold IG Reel, we know there’s still huge value in face to face interaction, and blending the two can be extremely powerful. Online you can reach more people, but showing up in person brings you to life, it makes you real and grows your trust so much faster.
In fact, both Caz and Toby shared on the podcast how powerful it’s been for them to combine the two: using online platforms to build visibility and connection, and in-person experiences to deepen those relationships and bring their brand energy into the room.
Think of it like this: your online presence is the handshake, the first impression. But the real magic happens when people meet the real you, the one who shows up with curiosity, values, stories, and all your deliciously human quirks.
That’s the secret sauce of modern networking. Not just being seen, but being felt, and leaving a positive lasting impression.
So, What If You’re Not a “Natural” at Networking?
Charlie would argue that most people aren’t. Or at least, not in the way the traditional business world has framed it. The good news? You don’t need to master the room or turn into a networking ninja. You just need to show up, your way, shyness, nerves and all.
Here are some key takeaways from our chat with Charlie, especially for those who consider themselves shy, nervous, socially awkward, or introverted:
1. You don’t have to ‘work the room.’
Forget the pressure to speak to everyone or collect as many business cards as possible. Focus on one or two meaningful conversations. Quality over quantity, every time.
2. Start with curiosity, not a pitch.
Instead of worrying about what you’re going to say about yourself, shift the spotlight. Ask thoughtful questions. Listen deeply. People will remember how you made them feel, not your elevator pitch.
3. Use online platforms to warm up.
Not sure how to start a conversation at an event? Interact with people online first. Comment on their posts. Message them to say you’ll be at the same event. That way, the ice is already broken when you meet in person.
4. Know your boundaries.
Give yourself permission to leave early if you need to. Or step outside for a breather. Just because you’re showing up doesn’t mean you have to drain your battery to empty. If in person events do take it out of you, don’t book in lot’s of important tasks afterwards, allow yourself time to recover.
5. Follow up like a human.
Ditch the stiff, “great to meet you” messages. Follow up with something real, refer back to what you spoke about, share a thought, or just say how much you enjoyed the chat. If you think the relationship could be cultivated further, meet for a coffee 121 with anyone you think you could add value to. Normally at events only surface level conversations flow, but 121 you can go deeper.
Connection Over Performance
The most refreshing part of our conversation with Charlie? The reminder that you don’t need to be a performance version of yourself to build a strong personal brand. In fact, the people who leave a lasting impression are often the ones who don’t dominate the room, but instead, bring presence, honesty, and kindness to the people right in front of them.
Networking, when done well, isn’t about being impressive. It’s about being interested. It’s about building relationships, not just visibility. And most of all, it’s about being willing to show up with your real voice, even if it trembles a bit at first.
Because that’s what personal branding is really about. Not the loudest voice, but the most honest one. In a world of AI the more human you can be the better.
While we end with the subject of AI, imagine sharing everything online through the voice of Chat GPT, then going into a room at a networking event and speaking completely differently – food for thought.
Want more of Charlie’s wisdom?
Listen to the full episode of the Brand You Podcast right here or explore his work at unnaturalsuccess.com.
And if you’re ready to build a personal brand that feels as powerful in person as it does online, let’s talk. No fake smiles, just a brilliant you. Just as you are.
