8 tips introverts can use to make networking easy

Attending large networking events can be especially daunting for introverts. (Rawpixel pic)

Networking helps establish professional relationships as a source of information and assistance to further one’s career development.

However, it is not an easy task and can be especially daunting for certain personality types, especially introverts.

Before proceeding with the tips for introverts on how to network, here are some general tips to build a good network.

• Get the right mindset.
• Find a suitable location.
• Prepare an “elevator pitch”.
• Ask the right questions.

Introverts, or those who are shy, often have trouble communicating well with strangers. So, establishing a professional network can be daunting, but it is crucial for career development and job opportunities.

Interview invitations are sometimes offered as a courtesy to close contacts. If the idea of networking is scary, here are eight tips that can help make the conversation with a potential contact go smoothly.

1. Network online

One of the most challenging things for introverts is communicating. The realisation that they will have to approach and talk to total strangers is enough to make any introvert feel anxious and uncomfortable.

Luckily for introverts, the digital era offers opportunities to network online.

Use social media platforms such as Twitter or Facebook and join a community with the same interests or in the same field you are in. Or, sign up on LinkedIn to help build more meaningful professional relationships.

2. Network privately

Networking does not necessarily need to be done with a large crowd. Group communication can be daunting for introverted personalities, so private networking can be the perfect alternative.

It can help them brush up on their listening skills and strengthen the networking session further.

Suggest a private networking session to a potential contact at a café or anywhere that is most comfortable. Or ask for help from colleagues to make an appointment with someone outside of one’s existing network bubble.

Networking is just as effective in a small crowd or among two people in a private setting. (Rawpixel pic)

3. Bring company

If an invitation to a large networking event full of strangers strikes terror in the introvert’s heart, but they do want to grab the opportunity and attend, they should ask the organiser if they can bring someone along, a familiar face to help ease the nervousness.

Better still would be if the companion is the friendly type who can start a conversation with strangers on behalf of the individual.

4. Don’t forget the old network

Getting to know new people from time to time is great, but do not forget old friends.

Always allow time to email or text the old network just to get an update on how they are doing and share one’s current employment status.

Suggest meeting up for a meal. People must remember all their contacts in good times as well as bad.

5. Follow up, follow up, follow up!

Follow up with new contacts after a meeting, preferably the next day or early the next week. Apart from that, the individual should try to customise their professional email address or business card content to increase employability. Or, do a follow-up on LinkedIn as well.

6. Always be ready

At an event, small conversations will be a “weapon”. Being an introvert should not stop a person from doing their very best.

If there is a list of the people attending, note the names of those you want to meet and do some research on their career background to help spark a conversation.

A friendly smile can help break the ice and put you more at ease to start a conversation. (Rawpixel pix)

7. Put on a smile

Building a good network is like trying to converse with a long-lost family member at a festive gathering. It’s awkward but the individual needs to push themselves and try to have a conversation.

It is always nice to smile sincerely and talk a little. It may seem a small thing, but it can have a huge impact on establishing a good network.

Just a smile and a short conversation could lead to an unexpected opportunity.

8. Be yourself

The last and most important thing is to be yourself during a networking session. It doesn’t matter if you are an introvert – be a good listener then.

It is better to accept the person one is than act like someone you are not feel comfortable with.

Conclusion

It’s never too late to establish good professional relationships for career development.

Introverts need to put themselves out there, overcome their shyness and do their best.

This article first appeared in jobstore.com

Jobstore is an online job site that specialises in providing jobseekers with the latest job opportunities by matching talented individuals with reputable companies in Malaysia. Find your dream job with over 40,000 job vacancies in Malaysia.

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