Introverted Personality And Professional Networking

Do you think of yourself as introverted? Does the thoughtof networking make you giddy and anxious?

I just read this super short article on overcoming your naturally introverted nature to embrace professional networking.

The article had three points, two of which really resonated with me (the first and third points).

1. Accept your introversion. It's not a malady! you just prefer the "inner world of ideas".

Solution? focus on one-to-one conversations with individuals, rather than group situations. 

2. Don't be afraid to initiate conversation or reach out. 

Solution: Understand that people are usually happy to talk to you, just start off with a smile ad an handshake and have a question or two prepared. And online networking may be the way to get you started, such as through Twitter. 

3. Prioritize time to re-energise

For me this is a biggie, and the most important one. I've learnt that I recharge by being alone. I promise myself one entire day at home a week, usually Sunday. This article recommends being aware that you need time to recharge and to honour that by taking the time to do so. For example, don't rush from one engagement to the next. Give yourself half an hour between cocktails and dinner. 

This will be great advice for those attending conferences!

 

Remember, networking can be highly beneficial to your career.

- Amanda Curnow

2 Comments

I enjoyed your article

7 Mar 2012 09:04 - pennys

Thank you for your article, I appreciated it.  I felt a real sense of 'that is me' regarding the introvert and lack of confidence in public setting.  I'll take on board your suggestions.

Networking and personality types

9 Feb 2012 10:02 - Jane Brooker

Thanks Amanda - those are very practical suggestions.  Although I work in liaison I don't find that working a room comes naturally to me at all, and my preference is always to gravitate to those I know and feel really connected with.  However, it can be really useful and rewarding to break out of your comfort zone and talk to someone you've not met or talked to before.  Sometimes you can just attach yourself to a small group where one of the people is known. At conferences there's nothing like striking up a casual conversation as yuou queue for coffee/lunch ... and sometimes sitting next to someone new (rather than with all your buddies if you are not the sole representative from your worplace) is good too.  Just a smile or a simple word about the weather/venue/content can break the ice - and at least give you one more vaguely familiar face to smile at next time!