👀 IRL networking for introverts (plus 11 remote roles hiring now)

Hey Reader!

Welcome back to The Remote Marketer newsletter! 👋

It’s great to see you again — I just got back from two amazing weeks in Osaka, thanks to FUTRWORKS, a coworking space right in the heart of the city, and the crew behind FUTRFEST 2025.

Working remotely is great, but let’s be real — social connection doesn’t happen on its own. So when their team invited me to join a community of remote workers IRL, I couldn’t say no.

But here’s the thing most people don’t expect: I’m not naturally outgoing.

I find networking events a little... draining.

And if you’ve ever felt the same, you’re not alone.

The good news? You can make genuine connections at in-person events — even if it doesn’t come naturally.

This month, I’m sharing how to network in real life without feeling awkward — and how those small interactions can lead to big opportunities... including your next remote job.

Bar hopping in Juso with the FUTRFEST crew

How to network IRL (without the cringe)

In-person networking might feel old-school, but it’s still one of the most effective ways to build authentic relationships — especially when job searching.

Not sure how to start without feeling awkward? Try this:

1️⃣ Do your homework before the event

Most events share a list of attendees or speakers. Head to LinkedIn and pick 3–4 people you’d like to meet. Look for common ground and note something interesting about them you can bring up.

2️⃣ Set a low-pressure mindset

Tell yourself: “It’s just two hours. I’ll show up, stay curious, and see what happens.” Taking the pressure off helps more than you’d think.

3️⃣ Smile and make eye contact

Simple but powerful. Smiling makes you approachable, and eye contact builds trust. Everyone there is hoping to meet someone — you’re not the only one feeling awkward.

4️⃣ Start the conversation naturally

When you spot someone from your list, go for it!

Example: "Hey, I’m Gina, I saw your profile on LinkedIn and noticed you’re working remotely for a startup. What kind of projects are you working on?"

5️⃣ Follow up after the event

Afterward, connect on LinkedIn with a short message that shows you were really listening.

Example: "Hey Gina, loved meeting you yesterday! What you said about breaking free from the 9–5 really stuck with me. Would love to get your thoughts on a project I’m working on sometime — let me know if you're open to chatting!"

What to work on this month

✔ Find 2 events in your area (meetups, coworking sessions, local panels).
✔ Pick 3 people you’d like to meet and prep a few talking points.
✔ Approach at least 1 person and start a convo using a shared interest.
✔ Send a follow-up message within 24 hours and stay in touch.

Book a 1:1 with me

To keep the momentum going, I’m giving away a free 60-minute career power session. Comment one event you’re attending this month + tag a friend on this post. I’ll pick a winner in 24 hours and DM you on LinkedIn this week.