5 Networking Tips for Introverts

Understanding Networking

Networking: that elusive thing that adults do. That word that darn extroverts keep throwing around. For us introverts, it's a cursed word that only brings destruction and terror. To never be spoken or mentioned in our introvert circle. Unfortunately, our circle is not the only circle in the world. And in this world, you're going to need to network!

What is Networking?

Networking is the process of making personal connections with people. It can be done to increase your network of friends or your career network. The more people you know, the more resources you have. Unfortunately, networking requires talking to people. That's why it can be so scary for introverts.

Tips for Introverts to Network

  1. Talk About Common Ground

    Talk about what brought you together. Maybe it's a party, talk to your new connection about the why or how you got there. If you find out you have some mutual friends, try some gossip. But maybe that doesn't work. That's okay! Just try something else.

  2. Find Deep Similarities

    Try and find a deep solid similarity. Not something like 'I like pizza and puppies'; everyone likes those. Try to really identify something that opens up some common ground for a discussion. Race, nationality, generation, even political or religious topics can work if the time is right.

  3. Ask Follow-Up Questions

    Any type of opinion they spit at you, ask to clarify! Try to get more personal and more philosophical as you go on to avoid any more lulls. But also remember that silence is natural. Don't panic if there's a pause.

  4. Keep the Conversation Going

    If you're talking, keep talking! If you think you're talking too much, just ask! If they say you are or you feel like you are, ask a question to change it up. Questions are a great way to get the pressure off you, maintain a conversation and avoid awkwardness.

Putting Tips to the Test

Finally, we decided we were going to put these tips to the test. So the author of this article tried out these tips when they went out to dinner with four people they were gonna go to college with the next year, whom they had never met before. They mostly relied on tip number one and talked about college. Cover the basics when you first meet people. Avoid the clichéd conversation starters and the discussion was pretty natural. Asking 'What about you?' was a valid way to relieve the pressure if they ever felt like they were talking for too long.

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