How to Network as an Introvert

If you’re an introvert reading this, you probably have read many blogposts and articles on the said subject. You may even groan each time you read another post written by another author talking about how to overcome shyness and networking.

One of the most important things to remember is as an introvert or an extrovert is that everyone works and does things differently. One size never fits all. As an introvert, you need to figure out what works best for you when it comes to networking. Why? Only you know yourself.

The dominant characteristic which makes you introverted is your need to recharge alone or with a small manageable crowd after a long period of being “on” and socially active all day. How and when you recharge depends on you.

A few ways that may help you feel more comfortable with networking:

  • Schedule time before and after a networking event to work alone and to prepare for the on period and to recharge.
  • Take solitary walks after events, and even before events to help you feel calmer.
  • Listen more than you talk, which you’re already good at. Find the right time to talk and never interrupt, which are already some of your strengths you can show.
  • If you notice you fidget a lot, hold something in your hands. This will allow you to stay focused on the conversation, instead of you playing with your hands.
  • Take breaks! It’s perfectly okay to take a five minute break every once and a while to reenergize yourself and give yourself a small break. This will do wonders for you.

It does not matter where you fit in the introverted-extroverted scale, everyone needs to work on networking tips such as practicing, having a networking plan, buddying up, connecting instead of sales pitching, following up, etc. These exercises and tips will help you maximize your networking efforts.

Practice may not make perfect, but it will make you more comfortable. Make networking and socializing a habit in your everyday activities and opportunities. For example, you can take small breaks at your office to walk around and introduce yourself to someone new at least once a week.

Read Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain. My former boss recommended it to me. I devoured it while travelling to the PRSSA 2012 National Conference.  It accurately captures what it means to be an introvert. Understanding yourself goes a long way and will help in the long run with your career.

You would be surprised to find how many communicators identify as introverts. So, if you identify as an introverted in public relations, marketing or integrated communications, you are not the only one. The person next to you just might be.

 

0a8e016Murewa Olubela is the Founder of The Single Story Foundation and was a past PRSSA Chapter President at the University of South Florida. Connect with her on Twitter and LinkedIn