Introverts are having a moment, aren’t they? Long relegated to the categories of “shy”, “quiet”, “reserved”, or maybe even “boring”, introverts are now being seen for what they really are - thoughtful individuals who don’t, in fact, hate being around people, but rather draw their energy from time alone or with a small group of people SO THAT they are well-charged for interacting with the wider world. (By contrast, extroverts draw their energy from interacting with lots of people and thrive on group situations and dynamics and feel less comfortable spending time by themselves.)
Since we (yes, I proudly claim the “introvert” label!) tend to prefer solitary time and pursuits to being in large groups of people, networking can pose a special challenge for introverts, as it often requires stepping out of our comfort zones and engaging with unfamiliar people - often in large doses. However, our introvert superpower doesn't have to hinder our networking success. With a little preparation and the right mindset, introverts can excel at building professional connections. In this post, we'll explore seven invaluable networking tips specifically tailored to introverts, empowering us to navigate networking events with confidence and authenticity.
Embrace your introversion
The first step to successful networking as an introvert is to accept and embrace your introversion. Understand that being introverted doesn't make you any less capable or talented. We introverts possess unique strengths such as active listening, deep thinking, and empathetic communication. Embracing these qualities will help us approach networking from a position of authenticity, allowing us to establish meaningful connections.
Prepare and set goals
Before attending a networking event, take some time to prepare and set clear goals. Define what you want to achieve from the event, such as making a certain number of connections or learning about specific industries or job opportunities. Having a clear purpose in mind will give you focus and motivation, making the event less overwhelming. Since pressing a business card into someone’s hand moments after meeting them may not jive with your introverted nature, start small by planning to introduce yourself to just three people (or even one person, if you’re just getting started and feeling overwhelmed). As you talk with someone new about their career, the conversation will naturally turn toward what you do, and you can then share what you love about your work. Prepare some talking points (make sure you have your elevator pitch ready!) and questions to initiate conversations, which will help ease any social anxiety you may feel.
Start with small groups or one-on-one interactions
Networking events can be crowded and noisy, which can be overwhelming for introverts. Instead of diving into a large group, start by engaging in smaller conversations or one-on-one interactions. Seek out individuals who are standing alone or approach a group with fewer people. These smaller settings provide a more comfortable environment for introverts to showcase our communication skills and build connections on a deeper level - and you just might connect with a fellow introvert - especially if you seek out those that aren’t talking to anyone else. They will be so glad you did!
Listen and ask open-ended questions
Introverts excel at active listening, which is an invaluable asset in networking. Rather than feeling pressured to constantly talk, focus on listening attentively to the other person's thoughts and ideas. Show genuine interest by asking open-ended questions that encourage the other person to elaborate. This not only helps you understand their perspective better but also establishes a rapport and makes the conversation more enjoyable for both parties.
Find common ground
Finding common ground is a powerful technique for establishing connections. Look for shared interests, hobbies, or professional experiences when engaging in conversations. These commonalities provide a natural entry point for discussions and help foster a sense of rapport and connection. By focusing on shared interests, introverts can feel more comfortable and confident in our networking interactions.
Take breaks and recharge
Networking events can be mentally and emotionally draining, especially for introverts. Recognize when you need a break and give yourself permission to step away for a few minutes. Find a quiet corner or a less crowded area where you can gather your thoughts, take deep breaths, and recharge. If starting conversations is anxiety-producing for you, you might keep a quick list of great questions or conversation topics on your phone that you can refer to when taking a break. You can also use this time to reflect on your conversations, adjust your goals if needed, and rejuvenate your energy for the next interaction.
Follow up and nurture relationships
Building relationships is the ultimate goal of networking, and following up is where introverts can really shine! As an introvert, you may prefer fewer, deeper connections over a large network. After a networking event, take the time to follow up with the people you connected with. Send a personalized email or connect on professional platforms like LinkedIn. Engage in meaningful conversations, offer assistance, and find ways to support their goals. Nurturing these relationships over time will strengthen your professional network and open doors to new opportunities.
bonus tip: plan ahead
Especially if attending a network event isn’t at the top of your list of favorite things, it’s a good idea to schedule events ahead of time. If you know a particular event would be helpful for promoting your business or getting job leads, go ahead and schedule it sever weeks out. Then you’ll have the time reserved on your calendar and all you need to do is show up. I’ve found that doing the things I don’t want to do FIRST helps me get them done - otherwise, it’s all too easy for my less desirable (but most important) tasks to languish, thereby costing me business opportunities.
Being an introvert in a room seemingly filled with extroverts can be hard. By embracing our introversion, preparing adequately, and leveraging our unique strengths, we introverts can build genuine connections and advance our careers. Remember, networking is not about being the loudest voice in the room, but rather about being authentic, empathetic, and present in your interactions. With practice, networking can become a valuable tool for personal and professional growth for introverts.
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