As an introvert, talking to people is usually a daunting task. Small talk for us is never easy; it is difficult being open with other people, and also building relationships with others. However, an introvert personality trait is just as important as an extrovert one, and it comes with many benefits when dealing with networking. Around 50% of people are introverts, so you do not have to feel like you are the only one that gets social anxiety just thinking about attending a conference and meeting new people for job prospects. Here are some helpful tips that will give you a newfound confidence when it comes to socializing with others for networking.
1) Prepare
Before going into a conference, write down questions you want to ask others. What do you want to get out of the relationships you are trying to build? What questions do you want to ask them about themselves personally or their job? Practicing ahead of time is perfectly fine and can make the conversations go more smoothly. You can also practice what you might want the other person to know about yourself. This is about making a connection between two people.
2) Focus on Your Goal
It is easy to become overwhelmed when the time comes for making job connections with others during a conference; however, setting a goal for yourself can make that task much more manageable. Before going into the conference, write down a goal of how many people you want to make connections with, such as three. Once those three connections are made, you are probably already socially exhausted and burnt out, so it is best to leave.
3) Contact Beforehand
With the world of internet, it has become easier to socialize with others because we can communicate what we want without having to see the other person. If there is someone who is going to be at the conference that you might want to meet up with, it would be good to email them and show your interest in meeting them. You can set up a lunch meeting with them; this creates another layer of being extra prepared to ease your nerves.
4) Take Someone
If going by yourself to a network conference gives you too much anxiety, having a friend show up with you can give you more confidence when talking with others. Having that support is a safety net and encourager if you feel yourself retreating into yourself.
5) Discuss Ideas
It is good when meeting someone to talk about certain goals or ideas you may have based on your industry to get the conversation rolling. You can ask them about their goals and ideas as well, and start building relationships right then and there.
6) Maintain Relationships
Making and keeping strong relationships is the number one goal when it comes to networking. Having this relationship can open many other doors for other connections, and they can put in an extra good word about your strengths and why it would be good to work with you.
7) Notes
Taking notes about the people you know have met can help you remember who they are. You can send them a “nice meeting you” email and proceed on the next steps with that relationship. Also, setting up future meetings with this person shows your initiative and genuine interest in working alongside them.
As an introvert, we are natural listeners and good at maintaining the strong relationships we already have. Taking these simple steps to getting out and socializing with others can give you a sense of relief and confidence when it is over.