Networking for Introverts
Being introverted in professional spaces can be tough. Most jobs require some level of social interaction daily, from emails and messages to Zoom or face-to-face meetings. Beyond that, you need to make social connections to build your community, further your career, or even find a new job. That’s where networking comes into play. For introverts, though, all this connecting can really drain your social battery.
But networking isn’t as scary as it feels. And while no one really knows the ratio of introverts to extroverts in the world, it’s safe to say you’re not the only introvert at the networking events you attend.
When you go to a networking event, it can be helpful to keep in mind that everyone is ultimately there for the same purpose: networking. While it can feel intimidating—even scary—to put yourself out there, everyone else is in the exact same position. People are interested in meeting others who are at the event and getting to know them. Networking is all about building your connections and community, so instead of thinking about it as approaching a total stranger, try to imagine that you’re approaching a potential new friend.
When networking, the easiest thing you can do is approach a group of people already talking and simply join the group. All you really need to do is introduce yourself (“hi, mind if I join you?”) and then listen. Group chats involve very little social lift on your end, meaning you can get a feel for the people you’re meeting without having to be the person coming up with all the questions.
The worst thing that can happen at a networking event is someone will not want to talk with you; that’s also one of the least likely things to happen.
But even if it seems simple, I know it feels daunting, so here are a few tips that you can actually use when you network:
Set a Time Limit – Have a goal of an amount of time you want to be at an event, or an amount of time you want to chat with a specific group of people. Planning to stay at an event for an hour is a perfect way to dip your toe in to networking; you can split that hour up into six 10-minute blocks of time, 4 of which you can use to specifically connect with people, and 2 that can be used for down time, like exploring the venue or getting food or drinks.
Prep Some Questions – Doing your homework and preparing a few questions to ask the people you’re networking with means you won’t feel pressure in the moment to come up with things to talk about. Either ask standard questions (like where do you work, what do you like to do, what are your hobbies) or ask unexpected icebreakers (song you have on repeat right now, movie you would bring to a desert island, most important thing on your desk at work/home). The Rally Cry has a great icebreaker game YPS played at a past Third Thursday event, Enough Said, that has awesome icebreaker questions in a convenient card format.
Listen – The best networkers know that listening is often more important than talking. Feeling heard helps foster connections and makes others feel validated. It also takes a lot of pressure off you. Instead of coming up with new topics, you can ask follow-up questions based on what others are talking about.
Bring a Friend – Having someone you know come with you to an event can be invaluable. Having a friend creates a built-in social safety net of someone you can talk to when there’s a lull in conversation with others at the event. I recommend having at least one part of the event where you and your friend split up, so you push yourself out of your comfort zone a little bit.
Don’t be Afraid to Take a Minute – It’s ok to pause, grab a drink or a snack, or check your phone, but don’t spend your whole time closed off. Try to limit the amount of time you are spending alone. Remember, you came here to connect with others!
The more you attend networking events, like YPS’s Third Thursdays and Morning Mingles, the more you will start to recognize people there. You’ll build connections and have event buddies who you can reliably chat with during events.
Remember, when you attend a networking event, everyone is there to…network! So don’t be afraid to put yourself out there a little bit, find a networking buddy, and start building your professional community. Maybe you’ll even find some other introverts to commiserate with!
By: Elizabeth Hillis
YPS Board Member
Promotions & Marketing Associate
WWLP-22News & The CW Springfield