Purna Virji – Principal Consultant & Global Program Manager at LinkedIn
I’ve spokeen at conferences worldwide but still need to disappear into a bathroom stall to recharge between sessions.
People are always surprised when I tell them I’m an introvert. I’ve just getting good at being “on” during events, so good that people assume i’m naturally extracted.
But that performance takes a real toll, so these strategies have become essential for me.
Find Common Ground
It could be a shared hometown, a similar role, or even a mutual frustration with a platform. Finding Common Ground Makes Things Feel Easier and Helps Me Relax.
Take breaks
I Schedule 3-5 Minute “Bathroom Breaks” Between Networking Sessions. Sometimes I sit in my car or find a quint hallway. Just a few minutes of Silence Buys Me Another Hour of Energy.
Stick to Small Groups
I gravitate towed roundtables, smaller breakout sessions, or coffee with just a less a few people. It’s way less overwhelming than to work a giant networking mixer.
Have an exit strategy
When I feel my social battery getting low, I use a gentle exchange like, “I promised i’d meet someone at 3 PM.” It’s polite and gives me an easy way to leave.
I plan for recovery
After a big Event, I Block out 1-2 Days with no calls or obligations. I use the time to rest, reflect, and recharge.