As a neurodivergent woman thats on the spectrum i really struggle with networking because i dont really know how to interact or engage others.

4 Comments

1. AnonymousSeptember 27,2024 at 7:33PM UTC

   Find virtual settings where you can come and go and interact on your own terms and async. (Like this forum, Discord, etc). Post interesting things on LinkedIn, etc.

   This is a safer way to network and practice engaging.

2. Erika CloughSeptember 27,2024 at 7:36PM UTC

   Are you in my head? I don’t think I’ve ever related to something so much!

3. AnonymousSeptember 28,2024 at 1:27PM UTC

   This strategy is from my neurodivergent teen. When she feels awkward or can’t figure out how to interact she uses AI. Want to give a compliment on a sweater? Ask an AI site for three ways to compliment someone on a sweater. Then she practices that and goes into the next situation like asking someone to meet for coffee. Because her memory is fantastic she is building a playbook for social situations.

4. AnonymousSeptember 28,2024 at 2:38PM UTC

   Firstly great you are asking this community - since you are on spectrum and an engineer by day you might be more comfortable with attending in virtual webinars and network off the back of that consider:

   (1) For virtual / in person events - send a LinkedIn request just a simple thank you to the speakers that you enjoy their session for example

   if u are exploring opportunities in their company add to that - ask them for advise at an appropriate time eg as you mature in the interview process not at application stage

   ** do not ask to meet up or for e-coffees on intro (they do not yet know each other/establish a relationship first)
   2) during linkedin connection request - research the company and roles before reach out to let them know for example you are actively looking to work there

   3) as you mature in the process and interviewing w their company - let them know and ask them for advice (this is an opportunity to express interest in their company again & reconnect w them

   ** follow their social media posts like and comment when it is appropriate

   4) in person events - aim to speak to 1 or 2 people per event (let it be those you gravitate towards naturally - similar background or role).

   If really overwhelmed - take a bathroom / breathing break.

   If too overwhelmed don't network at all but just listen into the session and if it's too much just leave the event quietly. It's a positive step to you went and you will improve over time.

   **start low numbers for networking and increase over time not overnight
   **you don't need to approach speakers
   if not comfortable but send a LinkedIn note as mentioned above.

   PS hope this helps in anyway. ❤️