The Networking Dichotomy As An Introverted Host

This is a strange one…. as an introvert I love working from home. The peace, quiet, stillness, being alone. Having the flexibility to have a pause from work as and when I want and need to (for me, my dog or children!).

But, I do like to meet other people - existing friends and contacts, and to make new ones too. After all, networking and building relationships is key to business success and growth.

And, as a networking host I always encourage my clients and audience to meet others, to network on a regular basis - like, every day! But this can sometimes seem a strange thing for me to say, as I know that I will never be able to do that. Attending an event every day, being in larger groups and meetings every day. Nope, I’ll leave this for the extroverts!

I can do it for a few days, but then I am wiped out, my brain doesn’t function well and I lose the ability to string a proper sentence together at times, lol. This is when I know I am people-d out.

Take last week for example. I went to Majorca for 3 nights with a small group of business buddies. It was officially a retreat, as we did get LOADS of work done. We had some amazing conversations, business brainstorm sessions, action taking, ideas generation and discussion. It was brilliant. But, on the last day, I was done in. I’ve enjoyed coming home, back to my quiet place. Back to it being just me - and my velcro dog.

So, how do you network every day? How do you meet new connections, build relationships, add value and share your business every day?

For me, I do a combination of things:

• Don’t overload my diary. I try and only have certain days for 121’s/ group meetings, with a gap in between
• I choose my in person groups, meetings and events really carefully. I don’t try and get to everything - even though it looks great!
• I use social media as a networking tool - not simply a sales tool. I have conversations, get to know people in messages at a personal level. And then if appropriate, look to have a Zoom call with them to deepen this connection
• I spend 30-60 minutes every day getting to know people online. I have this as a task, its non-negotiable, and its a way for me to manage my time and energy as an introvert, whilst making sure I network every day
• When I have attended big events, I try and make sure the next day is a quiet, admin day at home to recover and recharge if needed

As a networking host, I know the benefits this activity can bring. Which is why I love my meetings and events. As an introvert, and business owner, I know how time consuming and energy draining it can be.

Once you know your limitations and needs, you can work around this with your diary, ways to network and time away.

I know I can’t do everything - I am not superwoman, no matter how much I want to be!

How often do you network? Does it drain your energy? How can you be cleverer and consistent?