Networking for Introverted Actuaries: A Strategic Approach

Dec 17, 2025, 13:38 by Rob Reiskytl, CCA President

As the holiday season approaches, I've been reflecting on the importance of relationships. For some actuaries, networking comes naturally. For others, like me, it requires more deliberate effort. If you identify with the latter group, this post is for you.

Rethinking Networking

I once heard a definition at a CCA Annual Meeting that changed how I think about networking: it's not so much about who you know, but who they know.

Instead of feeling pressure to meet hundreds of people, consider the exponential reach you gain through each meaningful connection. Every person in your network opens doors to their network, creating opportunities you might never have imagined.

Three Core Principles

  1. Listen More Than You Speak
    We have two ears and one mouth—we should listen twice as much as we speak. Come prepared with thoughtful questions like "What do you wish you had more time for?" This invites deeper conversation than typical small talk and creates space for authentic connection.
  2. Practice the Four C's
    Be a creator and curator more than a consumer of content. Actively contribute to conversations, share insights from your work, and connect people who could benefit from knowing each other. Don't just attend events—participate meaningfully.
  3. Adopt a Growth Mindset
    The most valuable relationships include being both a mentor and a mentee. Offer your perspective to colleagues who could benefit from your experience, but remain equally open to learning from others, regardless of their career stage. Some of the best insights come from unexpected sources.

Your Next Step

Within the CCA, there are numerous opportunities to plug in through communities, committees, and events. What I've found is that when I volunteer, networking happens automatically through shared work and common purpose.

I challenge you to take one concrete action:

  • Reach out with a thoughtful question
  • Volunteer for a CCA committee
  • Connect two people who should know each other
  • Share a valuable insight or resource

Networking doesn't have to be transactional or exhausting. When approached with intention, curiosity, and generosity, it becomes one of the most rewarding aspects of our professional lives.

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