Networking Tips for Introverts

There is a false idea that the best networkers are extroverts or that introverts can't be good at networking. This isn't true. Networking should be a natural habit and that means your personality and your networking style should go hand in hand. Here are some networking tips for introverts

1. Remember you are not alone- extrovert or introvert- talking to strangers is intimidating for most people. So don't feel alone. Chances are the person sitting beside you, feels exactly the same way you do- so instead of concentrating on the way you feel, think maybe being the first person to break the ice is also making the other person feel comfortable as well.

2. Arrive early- arriving early for an event is an excellent way of blending in with people before the room fills up. When you arrive early, you are less likely to feel like all eyes are on you and might spot a few people sitting on their own who you can start a conversation with.

3. Prepare and practice open ended questions- going to a big conference? Look through the list of speakers and check online using the event hashtag to see who else might be attending, then send them a message (via Linkedin, email, social media etc) to those you might be interested in connecting with, saying you would be attending and it would be good to connect at the event. That way you have broken the ice before the event. Also practice asking open ended questions, i.e. what part of the conference have you enjoyed so far? You could also ask a mutual friend, event host to make an introduction on your behalf.

4. Use your natural listening skills- introverts tend to be more reflective and generally speak less often than extroverts. If this you, use this head space time to listen to what the other person is saying instead of worrying about what to say next. If you have practiced a set of open ended questions before hand and you are really listening to what the other person is saying, trust that the conversation will flow naturally.

5. Set a goal- compile a list of people you would like to speak to and instead of feeling intimated by the size of the event and the amount of people to speak with, set yourself a goal to connect with at least 3 people per event and increase the goal as you become more comfortable. What ever number you set, makes sure its a number that challenges you and pushes you a bit out of your comfort zone.

6. Leverage technology- Technology is a great way to connect with people both near and far. Linkedin, emails, Instagram, Twitter opens a world of opportunity for connections which can then lead to face to face meetings. Once you have connected with people online, face to face meetings can feel a bit easier.

7. Utilise one on one opportunities- when you go for events and make connections, make sure you follow up with an email. As the email exchange continues, suggesting to meet up, one on one, is a good way of building relationships without the added pressure of a crowd.

8. Go with a friend- going with a friend is a great way to share the networking experience as both of you can feed of each others energy. Plus your friend might meet people they know, who you don't and can introduce you to them. Just be careful that you don't use your friend as a crutch and then spend all the time with them without meeting anyone new. 

9. Use existing networks- In all of this, don't forget that you already belong to a host of networks, where you feel comfortable but may not be utilizing i.e religious groups, alumni association, professional associations etc. Connecting with people who you already have ties and/or similarities with is also a great way to strengthen your network and networking skills