Networking for Introverts: Building Meaningful Connections on Your Own Terms

Notes from an introverted, often awkward VC.

One of my favourite things about Dream VC has always been my cohort mates and the larger alumni group. Being part of this community gives me access to the next generation of venture builders who are not only talented but also kind and resourceful.

Beyond the Dream VC community, I've come to realize the importance of connecting with people outside my immediate circle. After all, venture capital is about people.

So, why on earth would an introvert choose this career?

Maybe it’s because, deep down, I want to help introverted and underdog founders succeed. Not everyone can be the loudest voice in the room, and that’s okay.

Here’s the thing: whether you’re introverted, shy, or socially awkward, none of these traits define you. They’re just parts of who you are.

Throughout my career, I’ve been surprised when people tell me they think I’m great at building relationships or that they’d never guess I’m an introvert. Despite my volatile social battery and my default mean mug, I actually enjoy connecting with people and learning their stories.

What I tend to look like

Here are a few things that have helped me build my network in my own way:

🧘🏽‍♀️ Start in Your Comfort Zone

Operating in spaces where I feel natural makes it less daunting to build connections. From my women-only groups to my house music community, I’ve met an awesome variety of people. Being in my element helps me focus on building genuine relationships instead of worrying about how I’m perceived. Join a community or group and start there.

✍🏾 Take Notes

Your memory isn’t as reliable as you think. Early on, I kept a spreadsheet of the people I’ve met over the years, noting their names, contact info, locations, and memorable facts. Listening closely to people makes them feel seen, and keeping notes helps you remember those key details.

🌍Use the Internet

I’d love to say I’ve mastered talking to five new people at every event, but I’m still working on that. Sometimes, after an event, I write to speakers to thank them for their insights. Even if I don’t connect with them in person, reaching out afterwards still builds a bridge.

💌 Communicate Regularly

It’s important to maintain relationships before you need anything from them. I’m not saying you should text everyone every day, but small gestures like congratulatory messages or birthday wishes go a long way. I used to worry about being annoying, but many people appreciate being kept in the loop. For some of my mentors, I even send end-of-year updates about my journey.

🫂 Bring Value

This is the most important point. When you provide value and act selflessly, connections form naturally. You can attend all the coffee chats and networking events you want, but helping others is what builds lasting relationships. It still surprises me when people remember me for something small I did for them or a friend years ago. You may not get standing ovations, but kindness almost always comes back to you.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• The world is kinder than you think – Someone told me this recently, and it stuck. Whenever I hesitate to reach out, worried about bothering someone, they almost always turn out to be eager to help.

• Interactions compound – If you didn’t get the contact you wanted at an event, don’t worry. These small interactions add up over time, so keep putting yourself out there.

• Don’t be imposing – When you meet someone at an event, don’t monopolize their time or aggressively follow up by email.

• There doesn’t always have to be an ask – Sometimes, it’s enough to share kind words or your thoughts. You don’t always need to ask for something.

Last week, I attended Moonshot by TechCabal. While I wasn’t panicking about how many people were there, I had the chance to connect with some fascinating founders and hear their ideas. During the Don’t Be a F*@!head masterclass with Kola Aina and Olumide Soyombo, I found myself reflecting on how I can better support the types of founders investors want to back.

I realized I could lend my knowledge to help founders prepare for future investment rounds. So, I’m offering free coffee chats to first-time founders in Africa who are not currently raising funds. We can go over your idea, and explore your narrative, and I’ll provide feedback on steps you could take to iterate and grow as a founder. If that sounds like you, book a chat here: Chat with Me.

Looking forward to connecting with you! And of course, if you see me out in public, please say hi :)

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