
As an introvert myself, I know it can be difficult meeting new people. So imagine trying to network as an introvert, especially during a pandemic.
I have used the strategy of going to networking events with my extroverted friends, and I did this to piggyback off of them. All I had to do was jump in the conversation when I felt comfortable. Solid plan, right? Yes and no. With networking, you have to be able to find your footing. Yes, a friend's help is not a bad idea, but there has to come a time when you take charge. Nowadays, it's all about organization and you need to know what your aim is before heading to a networking event. Organizing works with both introverts and extroverts alike.
Before you head to a networking event, you must first ensure that your online presence is on point. If the event is one where personal information will be exchanged, it is likely that they have viewed your profile on platforms such as Linked In. Take your business card if you have one and make sure to end the conversation while handing it over.
The next thing you should do is prepare your elevator pitch. An elevator pitch is a concise, compelling introduction that can be communicated in the amount of time it takes someone to ride the elevator to a given floor. This is the time to create what you would like other people to know about your professional achievements.
With the current state of 2020, networking has changed, and making connections is done mostly online. In many ways, introverts love this. I now interact with others on platforms such as LinkedIn, and have made many connections on the business pages of Instagram. The aim is for you to step out of your comfort zone and introduce yourself. Networking is now done mainly online, and you would not want to be left behind.
Create your elevator pitch and have your questions ready to make small talk. See how the conversation goes as it may go much better than you expected. Before you know it, you will have made many connections. The best place to start is with people in the same industry as you, then branch out later.
Introverts, it's now time to take over the networking world and go for it happily behind your computer/phone screens. Just go for it!
Get Connected!
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