How introverts can make the most of networking

Dec, 2019 04

So much of business these days is about networking. This is true no matter what sector you work in. But knowing where to start networking, and how to make the most of it, can be a real challenge – particularly if you’re an introvert.

Just as there are all different kinds of people and businesses, there are different kinds of introverts. Perhaps you’re simply a shy person by nature. Perhaps you don’t mind talking to people, but feel uncomfortable when it comes to networking events specifically. Perhaps you’ve become so used to working alone as a freelancer or remote employee that the idea of navigating a room full of strangers feels overwhelming.

Well, no matter where you land on the introvert scale, we’re here to help! Below, we’re rounding up six of our top tips for introverts who want to boost their networking skills – and hopefully their business in the process.

1. Be prepared

As with many things in life, preparation is key when it comes to networking success. Getting ready and optimising your mindset before networking events is a must-do, particularly for introverts. Spend some time thinking about what you’re interested in (or good at) talking about with others. Questions are always a good starting point; ask people about how they got started on their career path, what they’re currently working on, or any other questions that can lead to interesting conversations.

This step is particularly helpful if the idea of conversation lulls or awkward silences makes you anxious. Having a few talking points up your sleeve allows you to avoid these situations, and knowing you’re prepared can help reduce your anxiety about networking in general.

2. Be approachable

You might not even realise it, but if you’re a more introverted type, you may sometimes project through your body language the message that you don’t want people to approach you. For obvious reasons, this can be a problem at networking events!

Try to be conscious of your appearance and make sure you’re giving people signals that you are open to talk. That means no crossed arms, no blank or bored facial expressions, etc. Smiling and standing confidently will not only help you appear more approachable, it will also naturally increase how confident you feel. It’s a win-win.

3. Be yourself

If you’re not very comfortable at networking events, it can be tempting to hide your true personality or try to become somebody you’re not in order to better fit in. But you don’t need to chastise yourself for your introverted tendencies, or try to suddenly change your behaviour to that of a super-confident extrovert.

Instead, focus on playing to your strengths. For example, as an introvert you might be better at developing a few more intimate, in-depth connections rather than talking briefly to everyone in the room. In that case, concentrate on having great conversations with just a handful of people. The bottom line: be yourself, and use the skills you do have to your best advantage.

4. Be patient

Many introverts feel frustrated with themselves when they have trouble being confident and outgoing at networking events. But here’s an important reminder from us to you: be patient with yourself!

Like any new skill, networking can take a while to learn. And for introverted types especially, it can be something you really need to work at. So don’t feel like you need to become an expert overnight; start small, and build up your networking skills in your own way and at your own pace.

5. Be observant

If there’s one thing introverts are good at, it’s being observant. Usually more comfortable blending into the background than being the centre of attention, they have more opportunities to observe their surroundings than extroverts might.

Introverts who are new to networking can put this ability to good use. Observing how other people behaving at networking events can help you learn what works and what doesn’t. Then you can try implementing strategies that you’ve noticed have been successful for others.

6. Bring a friend

A common misconception about networking events is that you need to dive in all on your own from the get-go. Understandably, the idea of this is can make networking an intimidating prospect for the naturally introverted. But that’s not at all the case!

While the ultimate goal might be to build up your confidence to the point where you feel OK heading to a networking event by yourself, there’s no need to force yourself to go alone straight away. Bringing someone along can make the process a lot less intimidating. So grab a friend – preferably someone who’s in a similar industry, or who’s also interested in building up their business connections – and head along together until you feel more comfortable going it alone.

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If you’re looking for a space to work around like-minded individuals (and perhaps even practise your networking skills!), why not give Dashworks a try? Join over 120 other professionals and entrepreneurs – book your free five-day trial here.

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