Corporate life may have you thinking all networking tips are created equal, but that’s hardly true. For some professionals, networking comes naturally. They walk into a conference, introduce themselves to half the room, and leave with a pocket full of business cards.
For others, the idea of walking up to a stranger at an industry event feels exhausting.
If you're in the second group, you're not alone.
The good news is that customs brokerage and freight forwarding aren't professions built on being the loudest person in the room. They're built on knowledge, trust, and relationships that develop over time. Some of the most respected professionals in our industry are also the quietest.
The key is understanding that networking isn't about meeting everyone. It's about building genuine professional relationships—one conversation at a time.
Networking Isn't About Working the Room
Many people think networking means introducing yourself to as many people as possible.
In reality, lasting professional relationships rarely begin that way.
Instead, focus on quality over quantity.
At your next CCBFA event, challenge yourself to have one meaningful conversation instead of ten brief introductions.
Ask thoughtful questions.
Listen carefully.
Follow up afterward.
Over time, those conversations become professional relationships built on mutual respect rather than quick introductions.
Listening Is One of the Strongest Networking Skills
Introverts often underestimate one of their greatest strengths: listening.
People appreciate professionals who are genuinely interested in what they have to say.
Rather than worrying about what to say next, try asking questions such as:
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What area of customs brokerage do you specialize in?
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What recent regulatory change has had the biggest impact on your work?
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What advice would you give someone earlier in their career?
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How did you get started in the industry?
These conversations tend to be more memorable than polished elevator pitches because they foster authentic dialogue rather than rehearsed introductions.
Start Small and Build Consistently
Strong professional networks are rarely built in a single afternoon.
Instead:
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Introduce yourself to one new person at each event.
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Reconnect with someone you've met before.
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Attend educational sessions that genuinely interest you.
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Stay for one networking break, even if only briefly.
Small, consistent interactions often become long-term professional relationships.
The people you meet today may become future colleagues, mentors, business partners, or lifelong friends.
Volunteer Instead of Mingling
One of the easiest ways for introverts to meet people is by having a shared purpose.
Serving on a committee, helping at registration, assisting with educational programs, or volunteering at a CCBFA event creates natural opportunities for conversation.
Instead of wondering how to approach someone, you're already working alongside them.
Shared experiences often create stronger connections than formal networking sessions ever could.
Ask for Advice, Not Opportunities
One of the most effective ways to begin a conversation is simply asking someone to share their experience.
Most customs professionals enjoy helping those entering—or growing within—the profession.
Questions like:
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How did you become licensed?
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What area of customs brokerage surprised you most?
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What skill helped your career the most?
invite meaningful conversations while showing genuine curiosity.
Many mentorships begin with a simple question.
Relationships Grow Between Events
Networking doesn't end when the conference does.
Simple follow-up actions make a lasting impression:
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Connect on LinkedIn.
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Thank someone for a helpful conversation.
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Share an article related to a discussion you had.
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Congratulate colleagues on career milestones.
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Stay engaged with CCBFA programs and educational events throughout the year.
Professional relationships are built over months and years—not just during conferences.
The Best Network Is Built One Conversation at a Time
One of the greatest strengths of the customs brokerage and freight forwarding profession is its willingness to share knowledge.
Most experienced professionals can remember someone who answered an early question, explained a difficult classification, or encouraged them to pursue the next step in their career.
That's how this profession grows.
You don't have to become an extrovert to build a strong professional network.
You simply have to remain curious, continue learning, and keep showing up.
At CCBFA, our educational programs, committee work, conferences, and networking events create opportunities for professionals at every stage of their careers to learn from one another. Whether you're attending your first event or reconnecting with colleagues you've known for years, every conversation has the potential to shape your future in this profession.
Join us at an upcoming CCBFA event. You never know which conversation will become the one you remember years from now.
