I am an introvert.
Networking has been a challenge for me throughout my career and is often a substantial barrier for my more introverted clients.
In the next few posts, I will be offering some “tips and tricks” that I have found effective for maximizing networking opportunities, working with introverted “strengths” and finding success and even enjoyment at networking events.
And, for all you extroverts out there – you will likely find these tips helpful, as well.
Networking Tips for Introverts
Network like an Introvert.
I am an introvert.
Networking has been a challenge for me throughout my career and is often a substantial barrier for my more introverted clients.
Below are some tips that I have found effective for maximizing networking opportunities. By working with the strengths of introversion, you will be more likely to create success and even experience enjoyment at networking events.
And, for all you extroverts out there — you may find these tips helpful, as well.
Quality vs Quantity
Introverts will find that setting a goal to make 3–6 “quality” connections, will be far more effective and doable than a goal to make 30–60 “quantity” connections
An anecdote:
I once worked with a very extroverted CEO who would set a goal at networking events, to collect “as many cards as possible”.
Working the event as an introvert, I would identify a much smaller, focused goal i.e., 4–6 quality contacts, who shared or complimented my professional interests and/or expertise.
In the end, the CEO and I would realize equivalent business development results by applying our different strengths to our networking styles.
Introverts get energy from the Inside-out; Extraverts get energy from the Outside-In
Extroverts get and stay energized much longer when they are interacting with others. The more extroverted individual’s “miles-to-the-gallon” is much higher and efficient than an introvert’s. Extroverts will tend to have more sustained energy and stamina, than an introvert, in networking events.
Introverts get our energy from quiet and internal reflection. We are more like a 67 Chevy, than a Prius, when it comes to ‘gas mileage’.
Introverts need to strategize before, during and after networking, to ensure we keep our ‘fuel tank’ is full. We need, as well, to make time to refuel before we use up all our energy. If we overextend our capacity, we will find that we are “running on fumes”. This an experience and challenge for many introverts.
Examples of re-fueling can include taking short breaks to re-energize:
- Step outside if you can grab some fresh air or walk the halls if in a larger indoor event venue;
- Grab a few moments in the restroom — a not uncommon ‘hideaway’ for introverts escaping from the overwhelm
- Find 3–5 minutes in a quiet space to connect with your breath or to take some notes
Focus on Realms of Interest
It is important to seek out networking opportunities where there is an enhanced likelihood of making quality connections. We introverts are at our best when we are with people who share our interests and areas of expertise.
Once we are in our comfort zone of interests, expertise and passions, we can more naturally, open up, network and connect with others.
Stand Tall
Research has found that body posture is a significant contributor to a positive self image and related self confidence.
Our stance — standing (or sitting) “tall” — contributes to both how others perceive us and how we perceive ourself.
Stand or sit up straight and you will likely discover increased confidence in yourself and your networking abilities.
Conserve Your Energy — Let the Extroverts “Break the Ice”
Introverts often find it can take a lot of energy to initiate the first contact. And, as a result, it can be helpful to begin working the room with an extrovert, letting them break-the-ice.
Another strategy is to approach a group already engaged in conversation, as a way to warm up.
A frequently cited tip for introverts is to find someone that is alone and appears more shy than yourself. This approach can backfire, however, if the interaction becomes so engaging you do not want it to end. Or, it becomes awkward and difficult to disengage from the other individual, a bit like getting stuck on tarpaper.
Either way, remember that spending too much time with one person negates the goal of networking.
Prepare an exit strategy
When networking, whether or not we experience difficultly in finding commonality with an individual or group, it is important to be prepared to politely move on to the next conversation. It can be helpful to practice and have ready, an exit line or two:
- It has been a pleasure meeting you, I hope we have an opportunity to meet again at a future event.
- So good to meet you. I am going to grab a drink…some food…hope you enjoy the rest of the event.
- Thank you for taking some time to chat. I am going to say hello to a few more people. Nice to meet you.
You can do it — and do it well!
Introverts can do very well networking in both professional and personal realms when we are prepared and seeking quality engagements.
With planning and practice we can find greater confidence and joy in meeting new people and forging new relationships.
“Everyone shines, given the right lighting.” ~ Susan Cain, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking
At Life + Work we guide career and life transition. Learn more at LifePlusWork.com
Look for more tips in upcoming blog posts – and feel free to contact me: sjallen@lifepluswork.org for more resources, information and coaching to discover your potential whether you identify as an introvert or extravert or even a bit of both.