85. How to Network as an Introverted Extrovert with Dominique Jones, Executive Director of Global Kids
Release Date: 09/05/2024
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info_outlineAre you an introverted extrovert?
For this Women of Color Rise, I speak with Dominique Jones, CEO of Global Kids, a national organization educating, inspiring and activating youth to respond to global issues. Prior to this, Dominique held roles as the Executive Director of the Harlem Girls and Boys Club of New York and senior roles at the Food Bank of New York City and NYC Administration for Children’s Services.
A self-proclaimed introverted extrovert, Dominique shares that she used to think she needed to be someone else when she networked. Now she realizes that the key to networking is to be herself. Dominique shares tips to build genuine and authentic connections:
1) Acknowledge challenges - For women of color, we are taught that we need to be someone else when networking. We face unique challenges as sometimes one of the few or only in a room of people who do not look like us. At the same time, we have probably developed a unique skill of being multilingual, with the ability to speak to different people (people who don’t look like us or share experiences with us). We can use this skill to our advantage when networking.
2) Be intentional - Know what you need and who you need to connect with. Before an event, map out the specific people you want to network with.
3) Be present and curious - Be ready to meet them where they are and ask and learn about their experiences. Find things you have in common, including interests and experiences. You can even disarm them with a compliment; Dominique says complimenting them on their clothes works on both men and women. The key is to be genuine.
4) Think about the interaction not as a one-time event and find ways to be helpful - This is probably not the last time you’ll meet. Dominique tends to ask, “How can I be of service to you?” This opens up discussions where you can validate them, offer suggestions, and share resources (including introductions or opportunities).
5) Be yourself and find ways to keep yourself energized - For Dominique, she’ll wear bright colors to lift her mood. She’ll also identify people she already knows who are attending an event so she can have something to look forward to.
Get full show notes and more information here: https://analizawolf.com/ep-85-how-to-network-as-an-introverted-extrovert-with-dominique-jones