It’s time to challenge the stereotype that networking is an extrovert’s game
Networking and knowing people is an important part of a successful life. And it can be the worst nightmare for introverts.
But the good thing is: you can change that mindset, and you can have a great time at networking events. I know I do even though it’s out of my comfort zone and awkward sometimes.
I’ll admit, the fear of social events haunted me as an introvert,
but ignoring networking possibilities and work events is a mistake you will regret later because being successful depends on how big your network is.
I got my part-time job during my studies through a connection I met in my student organization.
Your connections know what you are doing, and will write you if they need someone from your field.
Are you ready to master networking? Let’s go:
“Introverts dislike small talk, but we are fluent in the language of ideas and dreams”
— Michaela Chung
Talk With Smaller Groups or Individuals
I don’t feel comfortable talking with more than 5 people in a group.
So I will start talking with individuals or smaller groups of people.
What worked for me until now is that I start conversations at lunch breaks with individuals who are also alone.
They are usually open for conversations, and if it doesn’t work or feel right you can always just leave after lunch.
Dress Up Confident and Comfortable
Don’t try to be someone else: you will feel uncomfortable.
Instead, dress up to help you feel confident and comfortable. The people you talk with are feeling your positive or negative energy.
I wouldn’t feel comfortable in a short dress or high heels. I would be nervous and thinking about my clothes and if they look okay.
Instead, I put on my favorite blazer and shoes, and I can concentrate on the person I talk with.
There is this saying: “Clothes make the (wo)man” and this is not just about your appearance but also about how you feel.
Have A Goal
To make the best out of the event I recommend setting yourself a goal you can achieve.
You decide how far you want to go out of your comfort zone and how much time you want to spend.
Just like you took the first steps, and didn’t do more you can also set boundaries.
You don’t have to talk to everyone. You don’t have to be THE networking machine of the day.
Set yourself a goal that you think is manageable, and then increase it with every event you go to.
It also doesn’t have to be a quantitative goal “I talk with 10 people today”. No, it can also be “I find a person I totally connect with and have a great conversation with them, exchanging contacts…”
Prepare Talking Points and Questions
Not like obvious cards with topics. Just in general in your mind.
This is what helps me the most because I’m bad at spontaneously thinking of some topic to talk about. And I love preparing.
I’m not gonna write cards with topics on something like you see in the movies.
I’m researching the topics of the speakers and the event, and I will prepare questions and answers.
It’s a great way to start a conversation, and at some point, it usually flows without needing prepared questions.
Conclusion
It’s not possible to be successful without a network. You don’t need to have 100 friends and 800 acquaintances on Instagram.
But you need customers and partners to sell your stuff (or yourself if you are looking for a job).
Through practice, I got more comfortable with networking, and I consciously go to such events to meet new people. Now I really like to hear new stories and views.
Try my tips at the next networking events!
One small step at a time: you don’t have to talk to 50 people in one night. More in-depth talks instead of small talk is easier for us introverts, and it helps to make a better connection the other person will remember.
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