If you're an introvert in the philanthropy industry, you might find networking challenging and exhausting. But you don't have to let your personality type hold you back from building meaningful professional relationships. Here are some tips to help you network effectively and authentically as an introvert.
Before you attend a networking event, have a clear idea of what you want to achieve. Do you want to meet potential donors, partners, mentors, or peers? Do you want to learn something new, share your expertise, or get feedback? Having a specific goal will help you focus your energy and time on the most relevant and valuable connections.
Networking can be stressful for introverts, especially if you have to improvise and make small talk. To reduce your anxiety, do some research and preparation before the event. Find out who will be there, what topics will be discussed, and what questions you might ask or answer. You can also practice your introduction, elevator pitch, and follow-up strategy. This will help you feel more confident and ready to engage.
Stay out of your head. Make the interactions about the other person. If you go prepared with questions and genuinely seek to see how you can impact others it takes the load off you. At the last event I attended my goals were simple: confidently present who I am and what I do, connect with at least one person, and see how I can be of assistance post-event, and actually follow up with any connections after the event. I connected with 5 people and followed up with all of them. My focus is always on quality and meaningful connections. I'm not about rapid, unfocused, haphazard speed dating type interactions.
Introverts tend to prefer deeper and more meaningful conversations over superficial and random ones. That's why you don't have to force yourself to talk to everyone at a networking event. Instead, focus on finding and nurturing a few quality connections that align with your goals and interests. You can also use your listening and empathy skills to build rapport and trust with the people you meet.
As someone who is right on the line of introvert & extrovert, I have deep empathy for those who are introverted and need to network in the philanthropy sector. I recommend: 1) Set goals for each event such as meet 2 interesting people, collect their business cards or QR codes for LinkedIn and allow yourself to leave. You need down time after every social event as it takes a lot of energy as an introvert. 2) At events, allow yourself to stand or sit on the edge and let people come to you. The most interesting people I meet are on the periphery and looking for someone to approach them. 3) Ask colleagues to make introductions and set-up one on one meetings on zoom or in person for coffee. It takes less energy to connect to one person.
Networking doesn't have to be limited to face-to-face interactions. You can also use online platforms to expand and maintain your network. For example, you can join relevant groups and forums on social media, email newsletters, blogs, podcasts, or webinars. You can also reach out to people you admire or want to learn from via email or LinkedIn. Online networking can give you more control and flexibility over your communication and timing.
Networking can be draining for introverts, so it's important to respect your limits and take care of yourself. Don't feel guilty or rude if you need to take a break from the crowd and recharge your energy. You can find a quiet spot, go for a walk, meditate, or listen to music. You can also schedule some downtime after the event to relax and reflect on your experience.
Networking is not a one-time activity, but a long-term process of building and sustaining relationships. To make the most of your networking efforts, you need to follow up and follow through with the people you met. You can send a thank-you note, share a useful resource, ask for feedback, or propose a collaboration. You can also keep in touch regularly and offer your support and value. This will help you establish trust and credibility, and grow your network over time.
I would recommend attending a public speaking course. You'll need to build your confidence, as successful fundraising requires many in-person meetings, picking up the phone, and being brave enough to make important asks. To network effectively, you need to be bold, friendly and approachable. A compliment is always a great ice breaker ??