Introverts & Networking: Yes, you can
We know that you’ve heard it before: it’s not what you know, but whom you know. But…you hate networking and that’s ok, a lot of people do. And networking for introverts is even more challenging. According to Susan Cain’s, The Power of Introverts Ted Talk over 50 percent of the U.S. workforce self-identifies as introverts. The good news is that you’re not alone and we want to teach you 5 simple steps to network.
Prepare yourself
Before you head into your next social event, spend a few minutes thinking about what you want to learn from others. Have a few questions ready to ask new people, such as “How did you get started in your career?” or “What are you passionate about?” If being put on the spot makes you nervous, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with writing questions down and practicing ahead of time. Also think about what you want to share about yourself, you can’t rely on another person to carry the conversation for you!
Develop your elevator pitch
No matter how many witty jokes and questions you memorize, at some point you’re going to have to talk about yourself. This may seem obvious, but it’s amazing how many people don’t think about how they are going to talk about themselves until someone asks them, and then it’s either 20 seconds of awkward silence or 20 minutes of mindless yammering.
Here’s a tip: Have a 30 second intro for yourself that you’ve already thought about and perhaps practiced saying out loud. To learn how to create your own elevator pitch. After your pitch, then pivot back to a question about them.
Remember to take time out
Being a good networker is also about judging when it is time to move on. If you are feeling really awkward, look to make an exit by saying you need to use the facilities or get another drink.
Smile and emphasise that it was really interesting to talk to the person and would be good to talk again. Then take a couple of minutes to breathe.
As an introvert though, remember to take time between talking to people and have a moment or two to yourself to do what you do best: reflect, think and reassess, keep on track.
Collect Business Cards and Write on Them
This may seem very 90’s, but business cards are still extremely useful for one thing: collecting and writing details of the conversation on. And it seems more polite than taking notes on your phone.
Smile
You don’t always have to initiate but if you’re hiding against the wall with your arms crossed over your chest, you’re not giving off a very approachable vibe, either. So try to relax, smile, and look as warm and casual as you can, it’ll open the door for someone to walk up to you and start the conversation.
