Networking for Introverts
Rob May at Businesspundit offers the following tips for introverts—those of us who restore our psychic energy with solitude rather than by schmoozing. I'm editing the tips on his list, then adding a few of my own:
- Don’t spend too much time on it.
- Do cool things. Don't network just for the sake of networking.
- Network with a friend. An extroverted friend can introduce you to folks; you and an introverted friend can challenge each other to see how many people you can talk to in a given time frame.
- Always go knowing what you want to get out of the experience—tips? advice? feedback?
- Always go with something to give—a business or job lead, a referral, etc.
- Analyze your results. You have permission to drop things that aren't working after a reasonable amount of time.
posted by Joanne M. Lozar Glenn at 4:05 PM
2 Comments:
I suggest that Introverts consider going to structured networking events. A structured event seems to be easier and more enjoyable for an Introvert than a happy hour, which calls for mingling.
Additionally, attend events that have speakers where you are interested in the subject. It gives common ground for discussions with others.
Lastly, prepare a few questions to ask others. You don't need to do the talking. Leverage your listening skills and people that you meet will appreciate that.
Kim Lysik Di Santi, Total Strategy
kim@total-strategy.net
11:27 AM
This is a great idea, Kim. Structuring the encounters does seem to help, and preparing beforehand takes some of the "what do I say" angst away!
10:36 AM
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