How I Avoid Energy Vampire In Networking

“Are you tired of hearing about the importance of networking, especially if you're an introvert struggling with networking events? Let me tell you a story of an introvert managing her networking without being burnt out.”

Stage 1: Kickstart Your Motivation and Inspiration

At the beginning of the semester, I was perplexed by the context of networking: “Is it just about socializing?”. The advice to be unique, authentic, and active in networking left me at a loss. Until that is, I found inspiration in the stories of various speakers during my Digital Media Marketing Seminar. It’s Lauren G. with her aspiring entrepreneurial spirit. It’s Jennifer Melton with her inspirational and diverse career path. It’s Danielle Wilcox Humilde with her passion and creativity. It’s Caroline Berryman introducing the idea of Social Marketing and inspiring me.

All these stories made me realize that there are different approaches to networking. The first step is understanding who you are as a networker and connecting with those who share similar vibes. This is how you absorb motivation and stay inspired.

Stage 2: There Is A Will, There Is A Way

Now we are inspired and eager to network. What’s next?

I tried to follow people’s advice by attending and volunteering at various events. It sounds easy that you just need to start a conversation by talking about something in common and listening actively. In fact, it is a real challenge that may turn out to be a nightmare if you are overwhelmed by the crowd.

It happened to me in a networking event where I felt invisible and so “unseen”. The excitement and enthusiasm of people there made me drained out – remember that anyone can become an energy vampire to an introvert in certain circumstances.

Did I quit after that trauma? No, I am not a quitter, but a learner. I have engaged in more events and spent time observing. I remember my Work Experience Professor mentioning different types of networking. There are lions who are assertive, outgoing, and confident in communicating. There are butterflies who are sociable and adaptable, shifting everywhere in the room. There are swans who approach networking with a sense of poise and elegance.

I figured out that I am more like a swan as I value deeper, more meaningful connections and may prefer one-on-one or small-group interactions. Hence, I practice being an active listener and being more engaged in conversations. It is hard at the beginning as always, but practice makes perfect. Gradually, I feel more comfortable connecting with those who vibe the same. As long as there is a will, there is always a way.

Stage 3: Practice and Growth

My most significant success in networking during my time at GBC came from my role as an Event Support Staff at the Student Association of George Brown College. Working on event marketing, I cultivated communication skills through student engagement and promotion. My boss, Mr. Neil Cumberbatch taught me that we can always create powerful conversations and impacts without making a buzz since a profound connection can make a really effective communication. ?

In addition, working and volunteering in several events (social, orientation, networking, fundraising) from GBC, IAB, and The Butler Did It – an Event Agency, I learned to focus on myself, engage in meaningful conversations, and actively learn from others. The key was to direct my energy toward positive interactions that recharge me, avoiding those that drain me. Meaningful interactions fuel my energy, while "out-of-tune" interactions deplete it.

A Networking Guide for Introverts

Here are some networking tips in a nutshell for introverted individuals like me, based on my own experience:

• Find your source of inspiration!
• Don’t quit, give it a few tries to find your suitable approach to networking.
• Practice active listening to build meaningful bonding with others and to engage in conversations.
• Focus on yourself and don’t let others drain your energy (or your confidence).
• Believe in yourself and give yourself some time to master the art of networking.

Now, as I embark on my co-op term job search, I apply these experiences and skills with the hope of finding a position aligned with my values and vision. I share this blog post in the hope that it proves useful to others navigating the world of networking. I firmly believe that introverts can be effective communicators with self-awareness and a willingness to try.

I extend my gratitude to the insightful speakers in my Digital Media Marketing Seminar, whom I consider messengers from the Universe, encouraging me to embrace courage and step outside my comfort zone. Special thanks to Professor Wendy Greenwood for keeping us inspired and ensuring that we are following the right paths. I feel fortunate to have chosen GBC and this program for my continuing education in Canada. As the semester draws to a close, I eagerly anticipate the unfolding of my future career, armed with the best practices gleaned from my learning at GBC.