Success is largely determined by an
ability to play to your strengths. If you happen to be shy or introverted,
don’t limit your dreams or count yourself out just because you don’t fit the
traditional image of an entrepreneur. There is more than one path to success.
Networking events, however, tend to
be designed for a particular personality -- the "work hard, play
hard," never-met-a-stranger type. Rooms filled with crowds of people --
not to mention the pressure to be interesting and likeable -- is enough to give
most introverts sweaty palms.
While visibility is a natural part of
networking, that doesn’t mean you have to be the center of attention. Rather
than approaching networking like an extrovert, introverts should relax, plan
ahead and let their true personalities shine through.
Here are some helpful hints.
1. Manage expectations. If
networking events make you nervous, don’t psych yourself out with unrealistic
expectations. You may not meet 20 new contacts or impress others with your best
joke -- and that’s okay. One quality conversation is more beneficial than 20
superficial ones.
2. Prepare. Plan
ahead and prepare some icebreakers. Open-ended questions spur interesting
conversations. Most people love to talk about themselves, their work and their
hobbies. Ask questions like, “How long have you been a member of the host
organization?” or “What’s your favorite part of your job?”
3. Set a time limit. When
you decide ahead of time how long you’ll stay at an event, it makes the
commitment finite and much less intimidating. At a minimum, give yourself 20
minutes to get your nametag, grab a drink and meet at least one new person.
Often, all you need is a few minutes to adjust to the environment. You may be
surprised at how often you’ll stay longer than planned.
4. Ask for an introduction. If there’s a particular person you’d like to meet, try to
find a common connection and request an introduction. LinkedIn makes this very
easy -- and if that doesn’t work, approach the event’s host. You’ll get much
further with an introduction from a common acquaintance than approaching
someone out of the blue.
5. Practice empathetic listening. Introverts are usually fully-engaged and fantastic
listeners. Because most people are better at talking than listening, you’ll
stand out as someone who values others.
6. Share your personal stories. Challenge yourself to open up. If you ask consecutive
questions without sharing information about yourself, it can start to feel like
an interrogation. Participating in the conversation will help it to flow more
naturally.
7. Practice. If
you’re still extremely nervous or unsure, challenge yourself with low- or
no-risk situations. Drive to a networking event in the next town over where you
likely won’t know anyone. Experiment with new conversation-starters or stories.
That way, even if you make a complete fool of yourself, it won’t matter.
8. Take small steps. With
increased practice, you’ll become more comfortable in social situations and
with sharing your true personality. Make it a habit to take advantage of
everyday opportunities to network. At the office, take small breaks to walk
around and casually socialize with your colleagues. Once a week, invite a
colleague to join you for lunch or coffee.
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