I used to think networking meant putting on a brave face at big events, handing out business cards, and hoping something would come of it.
As an introvert—and an immigrant woman in tech—it always felt… off. Like I had to perform someone else’s version of connection.
But over the years, I’ve found another way. A quieter way. One that leads to the kind of relationships that nourish the soul, not just the resume.
This is one of those stories.
How It All Started
“Now that you know all about me and I know nothing about you… I’d love to meet again.”
That’s what Jean Hsu said to me after our first conversation.
We had just wrapped up an interview for a research project I was working on—highlighting inspiring immigrant women leaders.
I was surprised. Most people don’t ask to know me.
From Podcast to Park Walk
I first discovered Jean through the Managers Club Podcast hosted by Vidal Graupera.
Her story stopped me mid-scroll.
It resonated. It intrigued me.
So even though I used to find cold outreach terrifying, I followed my curiosity and sent her a message.
That message turned into our first chat: a formal Zoom interview.
And then… she said, “Let’s meet again.”
This time, we didn’t meet on screen.
Just 10 miles from my home, we took a walk together through one of my favorite parks.
As an introvert, I expected to feel drained. Instead, I felt deeply seen.
We shared stories—about our careers, our cultures, and our lives as Asian women in engineering.
No prep. No performance. Just presence.
What Happened After That
Fast forward three years:
→ We’ve brought food to each other’s homes.
→ We’ve gone on many neighborhood walks.
→ We’ve witnessed important milestones in each other’s lives.
And it all began with one message.
Why I Network
Yes, I network to grow—and to open new doors.
But more than that, I do it to connect in ways that feel real and energizing.
💬 Having soul-nourishing conversations
🤝 Building real friendships—even from cold messages
🌱 Creating new possibilities—together
Love,
Wen
P.S. If you’re an introvert like me—someone who wants to build meaningful relationships without the overwhelm—I created something for you.
📘 Download my free eBook: The Art of Networking for Introverts