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Networking can be daunting for introverts. It may feel like we are exploring the universe ourselves. It takes planning, courage, and a leap into the unknown. But have no fear. If we earthlings can venture into space, so too can introverts chart their own paths into the social universe and forge meaningful connections.
As an introvert, I recently challenged myself to step out of my cozy space capsule and venture, even for a short time, into the gravitational pull of New York University’s bigwigs, as we all know. I remembered that we were breathing the same air. Here’s how I navigated this networking event, along with three tips for introverts.
1. Prepare for takeoff
Before the dinner, I Googled each guest and sent them a personalized LinkedIn invite. Introverts often like to take time to think before communicating, so we took advantage of this to get acquainted beforehand. It’s like plotting a course before launch. Less guesswork and fewer alien encounters.
I find that being prepared makes me more confident and makes it easier to interact with new people. Offering to help with host tasks such as checking in guests can also be an easy way to land with purpose.
Pro tip: Use online tools like LinkedIn, alumni directories, and event pages to gather conversation starters. Learning about someone’s current projects and common interests can help you stay on track socially.
2. Navigate the interior space
Earlier in the day, my dog Sunshine chewed my laptop charger, forcing me to warn my host that I might be late or absent if there was a veterinary emergency. Thankfully, Sunshine’s rogue mission to destroy my equipment resolved itself, and my host was kind enough to wish her well.
This unexpected situation was a perfect opportunity to break the ice. I followed that up with a playful blog post written in the voice of Sunshine, an exuberant extrovert who is my polar opposite. The exchange struck a friendly tone and demonstrated how personal anecdotes can help quiet the silence when preparing for social interactions inside an introvert’s metaphorical space helmet.
Pro tip: Are you nervous? Tell an anecdote or quirky detail about yourself to break the ice. It’s okay to accept your introverted style as a strength rather than a weakness.
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3. Bring out your authentic intranote self
I arrived as a true introverted earthling and as a gift to the organizers my books Self-Promotion for Introverts and Business Writing: Say More with Less I brought it with me.
President Mills surprised us that night by visiting eight different dinner locations around the city. When she told me that she wanted to honor famously introverted comedic genius Steve Martin one day, I knew the time was right. I didn’t just capture the moment, I jumped right into it.
I asked Warren Buffett (another famous introvert) for advice and a quote for my book at Berkshire Hathaway’s annual meeting (yes, in front of a crowd of 30,000 people!). I told you the story I received. Publishing my own book felt risky, but it was a good fit for the conversation. In some cases, seizing the moment is more important than fear of self-promotion.
Pro tip: Authenticity isn’t about oversharing, it’s about being yourself in a way that fits the moment. Sometimes, small risks like sharing a little about yourself can lead to amazing connections.
These strategies aren’t limited to dinners at the top of the social stratosphere; they also work at conferences, webinars, and other networking settings. Even just one genuine connection can open doors. Whether in-person or virtually, preparation and honesty can turn strangers into colleagues who drive each other forward.
You may be thinking, “That’s one small step for Nancy, but one giant leap for an introvert!” And you would be right. Networking doesn’t require a rocket launch. All you need is the willingness to take the next small step. With a little research, a little courage, and a commitment to being yourself, you’ll find your zodiac sign that makes you shine.
Now, let’s explore new social frontiers!
Copyright 2024 © Nancy Ankowitz
