By: Lauren Hendrick
Networking can be challenging for anyone. Approaching strangers feels intimidating and uncomfortable, but in the business world networking is crucial.
Introverted people enjoy time alone and can be shy. Most introverts feel at ease when they are alone with their thoughts. Approaching strangers can be challenging for someone who is reserved.
Although it is important to be yourself, focusing on the weakness of being an introvert will put you in a negative mindset. If a negative mindset is already set in place, it could trigger a snowball effect and ruin your networking experience.
It is never a bad idea to begin with baby steps. When you start networking, invite a colleague along so you feel more comfortable. When you get nervous, allow your colleague to jump in as your conversation fizzles out. It is 100% okay to be introverted! Own it.
Make sure you give yourself a pep talk before approaching someone. Tell yourself that you are excited to meet someone new and that your delivery will go fine. Obtaining confidence is a large part of networking, even if you have to fake it until you make it.
Find a common interest between yourself and the person you are networking with. It is easy to keep a solid conversation going when you find common ground.
Being an introvert does not have to stop anyone from networking. Be yourself, be confident and have fun. Conversations can lead to new friendships and can open doors you never knew were there.