How Learning About Being an Ambivert Helped My Anxiety When Networking

Networking…

A hot topic and a lot of great advice out there, but this is something I rarely see covered in networking tips—

What networking type are you? Knowing what networking type you are a top networking tip.

If I had a nickel whenever someone assumed I was an extrovert, I would be a mega-millionaire.

But, truth be told, I am actually what is called an ambivert.

Have you ever heard of an ambivert before?

Let’s have Google share what it is in case you haven’t heard the term before:

A person who has a balance of extrovert and introvert personalities

I will admit what Google shared is not rocket science. But ambiverts are less commonly talked about than extroverts and introverts.

And to be fair, I will share about those two more commonly discussed types:

Introverts are typically shy, focusing more energy inward, while extroverts generally are outgoing with more outward energy and focus.

And then we have another less discussed type— the omnivert.

Per Google:

Omniverts are people who experience extremes in introversion and extraversion. Unlike ambiverts, omniverts have trouble balancing outgoingness and shyness. As a result, they can seem like they have a dual personality depending on their situation.

For me, it was life-changing to learn this “option of being” and I felt there might be others like me who could benefit from this knowledge too.

Knowing there is an “in-between” helped me release the pressure I put on myself to always “be on.”

I would feel this “on” expectation and have mild anxiety before networking events, not realizing why I had these emotions.

I like people and have fun at events, but I felt a massive sense of relief when it ended, and I was happy to go home.

I was confused, which then added to my anxiety.

After a deeper dive into this secret personality type, I learned ambivert personalities might be the perfect fit for companies looking to create a productive work atmosphere that values introverted and extroverted ideas and perspectives.

People that identify as ambiverts may find themselves at an advantage in the workplace because of their ability to navigate different social situations. They can read people, pick up on their emotions and feelings, and communicate effectively with introverts and extroverts.

Don’t get me wrong; I am not throwing shade at the other types; I genuinely believe we are all likely some combos that may vary by occasion, what’s going on in our lives, or even the day of the week.

I’m aiming to aid in recognizing this type less talked about.

Acknowledging and understanding the strengths of each type of personality can foster an atmosphere that values diversity and encourages collaboration. Take this top networking tip to heart next time you are at an event.

What type are you?