The world seems to have it in for introverts.
Most people will associate introversion with isolation, with loneliness, with the need to always retreat. This isn’t necessarily the case, as the only difference between introverts and extroverts are where they draw their energy from. Introverts are more likely to absorb energy from being alone, whereas extroverts are inclined to absorb energy from interacting with other people.
However, this may mean that business networking events can cause quite a strain. There are certain tips and tricks that one can use in order to effectively create contacts, so if you consider yourself not quite up to speed, consider these a helping hand. It may even be a blessing, as introverts often feel comfortable if a level of trust has been established. This makes them better discerners of partnerships in the long run – it’s all about utilising one’s own resources in a way that works for them.
Stay Rested
As social events can prove to be draining, it would be best to be well-rested before any and all networking functions. Eat a hearty meal and sleep, or else do other things to relax such as reading and cooking. A breather may help focus your energies on more productive tasks, making these occasions less daunting.
Resting also makes you more receptive to people and social functions. When tired, you often want to just go back to your flat and have a lie-in, so it’s important that you prepare yourself and to appear friendly. Beauty sleep also does wonders for how you look, in general.
Do Your Homework
You already know all that there is to know about your company, so it’s time to brush up a little bit more on your industry and current events. Some introverts feel anxiety in not knowing what to do or what to say, so a little-added knowledge can’t hurt. Talk about issues that impact your business. Has there been any recent workers’ strike? Have petrol costs risen? That way, you can establish a rapport once you get to meet business owners like yourself.
Knowledge often helps one take control of a particular situation, quelling anxiety and boosting confidence in conversations. Intelligent conversations are to be had at networking events, especially since your colleagues will be considered experts in their business. Preparation is key.
Small Talk
Most introverts dread the small talk, where chats about the weather and the latest Premier League matches become commonplace. A way to avoid this is to always have something interesting to say. Compliment the other person. Say something interesting about your industry, your business, or even ask questions.
There is no reason to fear social events. Whilst it may be more draining for introverts than most, networking events are designed to bring out the best in any individual’s business. It is very much possible for introversion to enhance, rather than inhibit, business networking.
So if you’ve decided to brave the waters of business networking, don’t forget that it’s not as daunting as it looks. With a little preparation and self-help, anyone can get the hang of social networking or at least, pull it off.
Sources:
Most people will associate introversion with isolation, with loneliness, with the need to always retreat. This isn’t necessarily the case, as the only difference between introverts and extroverts are where they draw their energy from. Introverts are more likely to absorb energy from being alone, whereas extroverts are inclined to absorb energy from interacting with other people.
However, this may mean that business networking events can cause quite a strain. There are certain tips and tricks that one can use in order to effectively create contacts, so if you consider yourself not quite up to speed, consider these a helping hand. It may even be a blessing, as introverts often feel comfortable if a level of trust has been established. This makes them better discerners of partnerships in the long run – it’s all about utilising one’s own resources in a way that works for them.
Stay Rested
As social events can prove to be draining, it would be best to be well-rested before any and all networking functions. Eat a hearty meal and sleep, or else do other things to relax such as reading and cooking. A breather may help focus your energies on more productive tasks, making these occasions less daunting.
Resting also makes you more receptive to people and social functions. When tired, you often want to just go back to your flat and have a lie-in, so it’s important that you prepare yourself and to appear friendly. Beauty sleep also does wonders for how you look, in general.
Do Your Homework
You already know all that there is to know about your company, so it’s time to brush up a little bit more on your industry and current events. Some introverts feel anxiety in not knowing what to do or what to say, so a little-added knowledge can’t hurt. Talk about issues that impact your business. Has there been any recent workers’ strike? Have petrol costs risen? That way, you can establish a rapport once you get to meet business owners like yourself.
Knowledge often helps one take control of a particular situation, quelling anxiety and boosting confidence in conversations. Intelligent conversations are to be had at networking events, especially since your colleagues will be considered experts in their business. Preparation is key.
Small Talk
Most introverts dread the small talk, where chats about the weather and the latest Premier League matches become commonplace. A way to avoid this is to always have something interesting to say. Compliment the other person. Say something interesting about your industry, your business, or even ask questions.
There is no reason to fear social events. Whilst it may be more draining for introverts than most, networking events are designed to bring out the best in any individual’s business. It is very much possible for introversion to enhance, rather than inhibit, business networking.
So if you’ve decided to brave the waters of business networking, don’t forget that it’s not as daunting as it looks. With a little preparation and self-help, anyone can get the hang of social networking or at least, pull it off.
Sources:
- How to Survive and Thrive When Networking, AllynLewis.com
- Networking for Introverts, WonderFelle.com