21 Marketers Share Their Best Tips for Networking as an Introvert at SEO Events

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.