Shy, introverted people are valuable too. I've always found that when I went for a job that I really wanted or needed, I've found the right chutzpah to express what I had to offer while still remaining me. If I had to go outside of my self and act like something I wasn't, then I usually didn't get the job (and, in the long run, the job wasn't really for me, anyway.)

The best jobs are those for which you feel the employer will fill a need - you need a job where you are comfortable, where you can use your talent, and where you are useful. They need someone to perform certain tasks. It is the interview where you can find out what it is they need and then, in your own terms, express how you may be able to fill that need.

Mom always told me, find their need and see if you can fill it.

It's not schmoozing if you are having a conversation about something you are passionate about. Whether you are describing a methodology or conversationally talking about your riding, the more real you are, the more a recruiter is going to think of you as a potential.