We all know that networks can be valuable for career advancement, personal support, and expanding our horizons. So, what do you do when you’re an introvert, don’t love social settings, or feel like you really don’t know how to effectively network?
I used to be that person. I was convinced it wasn’t that important, I felt a lot of pressure at events, and I wasn’t sure where to start. Here are some things that helped me go from avoiding networking to having an extensive personal and professional network. But I can tell you after many, many years of experience: it is important.
- Go in with zero expectations
I mean it. Expect you are getting zero, nothing, zilch from the networking event. Worst case, you’ve spent an hour standing and/or getting steps in. Best case, you make some great connections. Once I took the pressure off myself to consider the event a success or gain a benefit from it, I was much more relaxed. Do I still do this? Yep. Do I still have events or activities that I won’t do again because it wasn’t for me? Yep. But I have now had enough ‘good’ experiences that I don’t care.
Pro tip: Wear an outfit you love and feel like a million bucks in; that way even if networking is a bust, you still look good!
- Practice your listening skills
I used to be a horrible listener. You know those people who are just waiting to talk? That was me. I started to use events and volunteer opportunities to practice listening. Most people are comfortable talking about themselves so if you ask a few questions, you will have time to practice listening. This is also great for people who aren’t comfortable talking about themselves; make it your mission to find the extrovert. You’ll learn a lot of interesting things and there isn’t a quiz at the end so it’s a good test ground to really practice listening.
Pro Tip: Instead of asking “what do you do?” ask “are you working on anything interesting right now?” This opens a variety of both personal and professional topics.
- Give yourself a set time limit with a treat for yourself at the end
Plan something to look forward to immediately following the event. Maybe it’s watching a movie you’ve been wanting to see, a stop for ice cream, walking your dog, wandering through Target, etc. Having a set time in your brain helps you make the most of the time you have and helps make it not feel endless. You can always stay longer if you’re into the event but if not, move on to your treat.
Pro Tip: Pick something that you don’t do every day. It doesn’t have to be practical.
