I'm an introvert by nature, and the thought of "networking" makes me break out in a cold sweat. But after 7 years in public accounting, I'm ready for a change, and I know networking is key.

The problem is, my professional circle is basically all accountants. How do I break out of the accounting bubble and connect with people in other fields?

Any tips for someone who's not a natural schmoozer? Should I be cold-emailing people on LinkedIn? I'm open to any and all advice!

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Networking doesn't have to be all about awkward cocktail parties and forced small talk. Start by focusing on your interests outside of accounting. Join industry-specific groups or online communities related to fields you're curious about. Attend relevant conferences or workshops, even if they're virtual. You'll naturally meet people who share your passions, making conversations flow more easily.

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Instead of cold emailing, try the informational interview approach. Reach out to people in your desired field and ask for a brief chat to learn about their career path and industry insights. It's a low-pressure way to build connections and get your foot in the door. You might be surprised by how many people are willing to help.

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Find people through hobbies or other interests/affiliations. Networking just means meeting and maintaining relationships with people. I'm also an introvert and it helps me to frame it this way.

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