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Introverts: How To Network Like a Pro
I love to meet and talk with new people, and I am energized by one-on-one interactions with really interesting people. The problem is that these interactions often require starting in large social engagements, which for painful introverts like me can be a challenge.
For years, I have learned the valuable skill of masking my discomfort in crowds with the purpose of meeting others and building my network with one simple strategy: Planning.
Like any other business endeavor, having a plan is just as critical for networking as it is for starting a business or launching a new product line. So if groups and mingling are outside your comfort zone, consider these useful tips to start networking like a pro.
Plan like an invasion
For introverts, our energy and enthusiasm for networking events is minimal, which is why you need to treat the event like a battle — with you being the over-matched and under-resourced army. And just like going into battle, you need a battle plan.
- Remind yourself why you are going to the event — to grow professionally and make valuable connections
- Do research on who will or might be at the event — at least the type of people and the value they offer
- Give yourself a set time table — it creates…
