Networking can be difficult for all of us. But it is sometimes even more so for introverts.
If socializing tires you out or intimidates you, you may not know what to do to improve your networking skills: should you adopt a different personality? Are introverts at a disadvantage in this area? Fortunately, the answer to both questions is a resounding “no”! Introverts have unique strengths they can harness to master the art of networking.
Networking takes work for introverts, but it’s worth it.
Why are introverts good at networking?
The qualities of introverted people work in their favor in the networking arena. People who know how to listen and who prefer to give space to others rather than monopolizing the spotlight have an advantage. Networking requires receptivity to the ideas of others and a willingness to listen.
As an introvert, you probably don’t like small talk and insincere interactions. You may prefer to engage in interactions that you find meaningful. When you speak to others, your investment in the interaction is noticeable.
People appreciate this authenticity more than insincerity in seeking visibility or attention.
Why should I learn to network?
Learning how to network may seem unattractive at first. But a network offers you benefits, including greater self-confidence, but also potential professional opportunities as well as career advice and professional support.
Your network can make it easier for you to progress professionally than if you were alone.
Here are some tips dedicated to introverts to approach the technique of networking more effectively.
Practical guide for introverts
1. Don’t pretend to be outgoing
As an introvert, you may think you’ll have to play the extrovert to successfully network. This idea is false, and even harmful. Forcing yourself to play the extrovert could actually lead to you developing impostor syndrome or burnout. Or even just make others feel like you’re fake.
The solution ? Show off your true personality for better results.
2. Work your network virtually
Networking skills extend to the digital realm. If you don’t like face-to-face meetings, you can network using professional networking sites and social media to share your work and connect with other people.
Some introverts find online networking less exhausting and easier to adapt to their pace.
3. Don’t force yourself to attend big events
Big events are not for everyone. They are especially difficult for some introverts who suffer from anxiety issues.
Remember that you don’t need to force yourself to attend large optional events to be successful in networking. Forcing yourself to attend these events can waste time you could be spending networking in a more comfortable setting.
4. Come accompanied to events
If you have an ally with you, be it a friend or coworker, you can more easily avoid feelings of awkwardness or boredom during face-to-face events. Indeed, the presence of a friend can allow you to have an interlocutor while waiting to establish a new interesting or significant connection.
And if your friend is outgoing and can take the initiative to introduce you to others, even better.
5. Seek out other introverts
When you arrive at a networking location, keep an eye out for other introverted people. Who seems to be keeping their distance, keeping a low profile? Who talks less and listens more? You may find these people easier to approach.
6. Arrive early
It can also help to arrive early to events. There are fewer people and attendees are always looking for conversation partners. Approaching a single person can seem less intimidating than getting into an active conversation.
Also, people who arrive early may have a more serious mind and prefer genuine conversations.
7. Set goals in advance
You can improve the results of your participation in events by defining your intentions and objectives in advance, for example:
- favor authentic interactions;
- talk to two or three people per event;
- leave early so you don’t get overwhelmed.
Think about what you hope to learn or gain from events or people. Practice interactions like introducing yourself or summarizing your work in advance.
8. Know that you are not alone
You’d be surprised how many people, even extroverts, find it difficult to converse with strangers!
In fact, almost anyone can feel awkward and socially awkward. Most attendees at a networking event are actually hoping someone will approach them. Take the lead and try to approach someone!
9. Set reasonable expectations
Know your limits and take care of yourself. If you push yourself to the limit at every event and it hurts you, you’ll have a hard time making connections and building an effective network.
10. Ask to be introduced
Would you like to meet someone in particular, or have them teach you certain things? Feel free to ask a mutual contact to warmly introduce you. Introductions are also a social facilitator that helps start off on a positive note with strangers.
11. Stay on the sidelines
Staying out of the spotlight can be very positive. Most in-person events have less active, sidelined areas where attendees can recharge. This is where you are most likely to meet like-minded people.
12. Don’t pressure yourself to make everything perfect.
Don’t be hard on yourself if you occasionally hit the wrong notes when trying to make contact. From time to time you may think that a very important connection is possible, and finally it does not happen.
It is also possible that you meet people with whom you do not hang out, and you are not necessarily responsible.
Go ahead and stay optimistic.
13. Accept feeling a little nervous.
Finally, it’s normal to feel a little nervous about networking. Both introverts and extroverts sometimes have to deal with nervousness. Approaching interactions with confidence and not worrying about the little things can be very helpful for networking.
Be kind and don’t judge yourself or others.
Source: ZDNet.com