Social and networking events can feel endless and induce anxiety, especially for the introverts among us. Connecting with new people and wondering what to say can be daunting. But it is possible to find ways to work through those worries and anxieties and get the most out of every event you attend.
Related: Networking 101
The infographic below offers a variety of networking tips for introverts to help facilitate these events. From tips to preparation before, during and after the event, the piece covers what to do at each stage to make you feel more comfortable with the situation and get exactly what you want from it.
Prepare before the event, including using social media to find out who's talking about it and making sure you have enough business cards to hand out to new acquaintances. For many introverts, talking to new people can cause anxiety, so prepare questions to ask others and set a time limit on how long you'll stay at the event. Keep in mind that you should only stay during this time — it might even inspire you to make the most of this time.
Arrive early, keep introductions simple, and take breaks if you need to, because it can help you feel stronger. It's also important to remember that you don't always need to attend networking events alone. Bringing along a friend or colleague can give you extra confidence. After the event, follow up with new contacts on social media or email, as this can help build ties for the next event.
Following these simple tips can help make networking events easier manageable and efficient, ensuring you're equipped to get everything you want out of the event. Although it may be difficult at first, like everything, practice makes perfect. Start with small networking events when possible and expand to larger ones, each time following the guidelines outlined in the infographic until you feel confident and confident.
Related: Practicing Confident Body Language with “Power Posing”
SOURCE:COLONIAL LIFE
