How to Network if You're an Introvert

Some people are just plain shy, or get nervous in a networking environment. Especially if there will be a lot of people in a small space, networking can be a stressful experience. These are some great tips to help you learn how to network if you're an introvert.

1. Focus on one person at a time.

Some people go to a networking event and try to pick out as many people as they can to speak with. This strategy isn't for everyone. If you're a bit on the shy side, there are only a few people at a networking event who you'll feel even remotely comfortable engaging with. Pick a person and strike up a conversation. Focus on one person at a time. Try to ignore everyone else around you. Focusing on one person at a time during networking events will help demonstrate your attentativeness more than some of the other more "social" professionals at the networking event.

2. Expect to feel uncomfortable.

Neuroscientists will tell you that if you want to feel comfortable in an uncomfortable situation, you must repetitively put yourself in uncomfortable situations. This might be a hard pill to swallow, especially if you don't exactly thrive in social situations. The more you go to networking events and put yourself in uncomfortable situations, the more comfortable you will feel. Don't expect to be a networking pro overnight. Everyone at networking events gets nervous to some extent. The benefits outweigh the risks.

3. Fake it til' you make it.

Pretend that you're comfortable at networking events. Put on an act. You would be surprised how many other networkers at networking events do this. You can be a shy person, but a good actor. Pretending to be comfortable in your own skin will help you develop powerful connections and perhaps even connect with great leads groups.

4. Use your silence to your advantage.

How many times have you attended a networking event, only to be annoyed by someone bombarding you with a long drawn out sales pitch? Sales pitches hardly ever work unless you know something about who you're pitching to. Use your shyness to your advantage when you're networking. Ask questions like "what made you decide to start your company?", "what is your favorite part about your career?", "if you could change one thing about your day, what would it be?" Let the other person do most of the talking. This is a great way to develop great relationships; by showing a genuine interest in others.

5. Network before the event begins.

Try to find members of your leads groups who will be attending the event beforehand, or invite them. Strike up a conversation online. This is a great way to start a great networking relationship without feeling too uncomfortable meeting someone for the first time.

Posted By: Shannon Harper 8 years ago

Category: Networking Groups

Tags: business networking, leads groups, Networking Groups