by JOH_3164
Wondering how to overcome shyness when networking? Not a fan of approaching complete strangers? Don’t feel the urge to deliver your 30 second elevator pitch right after saying hello to someone? Don’t feel like listing off the benefits of your services to someone who unwittingly asked what you do for a living?
Networking for introverts has never been easy. Don’t worry. You’re not alone. Not all of us feel comfortable being a “power networker” – which somehow has translated into being a pushy conversationalist. Networking is not nor has it ever been intended to be the battle of “you need what I got”. It doesn’t matter if you have an outgoing, charismatic personality or not. Networking boils down to having a successful conversation.
As it has been said, “The good Lord gave you two ears and one mouth. Use them in that proportion.” The key to networking – and therefore selling – is asking questions. Your focus should always be on the other person. You never know where their specific needs, wants, skills, or other connections might be. Don’t focus on asking only leading questions that result in your pitch. You can factors those in, but you’ll miss out on many future opportunities if you don’t venture outside your prepared script.
If knowing that you only have to talk half as much as you anticipated for a networking event isn’t enough for you brave those extroverted waters, then how about setting a goal? Instead of thinking about having to shake hands with every person in the room, why not take a more targeted approach? Plan to meet only 5 people. Get in and get out. Perhaps, next time you can plan to meeting with 7 or 10. This will not only let you make your networking quicker, more targeted, and more efficient, but you will also have fewer follow-up conversations after the initial meeting. (Hint: always follow-up if there’s a good connection.)
And if talking less and meeting fewer people isn’t making networking seem a bit more tolerable, there’s nothing wrong with the buddy system! Bring a friend. Compete with each other. Who can meet the most people? Or better yet, who can meet the most qualified people. After each conversation, go to your buddy, make jokes, debrief, and search out your next complete stranger.
