The Surprising Truth About Introverts & Networking

It’s generally understood that most introverts have a hard time networking. This can be exacerbated if you happen to also be an empath who is very sensitive to the energy of people around you.

Introverts often assume that extroverts have an easy time of networking, however even extroverts can find networking tiring and the outcomes they achieve are sometimes less successful than many introverts.?

Curious to know why that is? Let me explain.

Most introverts have a super-power when it comes to networking. They tend to be excellent active listeners. They will often listen intently and then offer encouragement for the speaker to share more, with a comment such as “How interesting, I'd like to hear more about that”. Most of us enjoy sharing information about ourselves, especially if we have an attentive audience, provided the questions are not too intrusive. This encouragement to continue sharing can provide a foundation for building deeper relationships.

Introverts tend to spend more time alone and often this time is focused on self-reflection. Knowing yourself on. deeper level can help you be more aware of how you’re coming across to other people and that in turn can help foster building new relationships.?

Extroverts tend to love to talk and are energised by meeting other people. This can sometimes mean that when others are talking, they are half listening while also spending time thinking about what they want to share when the person talking has made their point. They may even re-direct the conversation to a topic that is of more interest and relevance to them, if they don’t see an opportunity to contribute.?

Of course, this isn’t true of all introverts or extroverts, however if you’re an extrovert who is reading this newsletter, ask yourself whether bringing your most curious mind and consciously practicing more active listening at your next networking event could be beneficial. Read on for networking tips to make networking more comfortable for introverts. If you're an extrovert, you'll find many of these tips could be beneficial for you too.

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Now I’ll share some tips for making networking less uncomfortable if you’re an introvert, however if you’re an extrovert, consider reading on as these tips can be relevant for you too.

Networking Tips for Introverts

1.??????? Manage your energy – networking events can be tiring for everyone and this is especially true for introverts. Consider the duration of events and the frequency of your networking activities before committing.

2.??????? Don’t try to pretend to be an extrovert, simply bring your best self to events by taking a few deep breaths and putting a smile on your face as you join other participants – you’ll seem more approachable.

3.??????? Leverage your active listening skills – they’re a super-power. This will help take the pressure and focus off you. Focus on being curious and getting to know others.

4.??????? Prepare before the event, with a brief introduction and practice it until you are comfortable. Bring some open-ended questions and one or two anecdotes or interesting stats that could be relevant for the people you’ll be meeting.

5.??????? Practice your introduction until it flows naturally and make sure it’s intriguing and will encourage others to want to know more about you e.g. a financial advisor focused on supporting widows might say “I help widows answer the question “Will I be OK?” and make wise financial decisions on the path to the life they envision”

6.??????? Look for other individuals who are alone and seem to be feeling uncomfortable. Go up to them with a smile on your face and say “Hi I’m _____, I’m on my own at this event, may I join you?” They’ll be grateful and you’ll feel good that you’ve helped someone else feel less alone.

7.??????? Seek out small group networking events where you’re more likely to be able to talk with others 1-on-1 rather than in large noisy events where the energy can be exhausting for introverts.

8.??????? Ask people in your network to introduce you to others it might be helpful for you to meet – you don’t always have to attend a networking event to meet new people.

9.??????? Take a mini break if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed at an event. Step outside for a few minutes to take a few deep breaths and centre yourself. If you’re feeling exhausted, it’s OK to leave the event early.

10.? Choose events which are relevant to something you care deeply about, it’s easier to stay in an uncomfortable situation if you know doing so will contribute to a greater good, or an initiative you believe in.

I used to find networking very uncomfortable, even though I’m considered to be an extrovert. I believed I had to impress other people and it didn’t feel authentic. I was also terrible at small talk. When I started my coaching practice serving people who wanted to make inspired life and career transitions, I had to overcome my resistance and develop my networking skills to meet potential clients. Eventually I learned to love networking and I’m now seen as a networking expert. Networking has enriched my life in so many ways and I wish I’d developed this skill much earlier in my life.?

When I realised that many other people were struggling with networking, I decided to do something about it. I took everything I’d learned about how to be a good networker and created a course “Networking for Success”. It’s now available on my website and includes access to an online community where you can practice your networking in a safe and welcoming environment. Find out more on my website at www.suemaitland.com.?

If I was able to go from dreading networking events to learning to love networking, you can too. Take my step-by-step training and enrich your life with more meaningful connections.

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