By: Adrian Kee

Attended a very interesting networking event this morning by 2 LinkedIn connections turned friends.

One talked about net worth.
The other talked about network.
Such an eye opening event for all present.

Thanks Moonie Tan for:
- Building and sharing with us your financial simulation model that allows one to easily understand their financial status for retirement planning
- Hosting all of us in your office

Thanks Dr Azhar Ahmad for:
- Sharing simple yet practical networking tips with us
- I used them and no one believed I’m an introvert anymore ????

*****
My key takeaway from today’s session is that career development depends on PIE:
- 10% Performance
- 30% Image
- 60% Exposure

As an Asian, I was taught to keep my head down, do good work, and be humble. I didn’t know the importance of visibility.

Being an introverted Asian made things worse. I helped others but did not take credit for the support given, and I skipped after-work drinking parties with my boss because I didn’t enjoy alcohol and socializing.

As a result, I missed promotions at work.
Not once, but twice.

This is why I’m pushing myself to network more - at work and in life.

This is why when I introduced myself as an introvert to new people today, I am secretly glad when they doubted me.

This is also what fuelled the founding of Networking Hike Tribe to make networking easy and an enjoyable experience for introverts.

Despite getting my usual 6hr of sleep today, I had to take a nap after today’s 3.5 hr networking session. Guess I’m still an introvert after all ????

Ps: Have you attended any interesting networking sessions lately?