Networking – An Introvert’s Perspective
Working at the Chamber of Commerce, the ability to network is an integral part of any employees’ day-to-day. And it is an essential skill for anyone looking to connect with their business community and advance one’s career.
Truth be told, this was one of the scariest aspects of beginning my employment at the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce. My name is Katie, and I am the Marketing and Public Relations Manager at the Hanover Chamber. I am also a textbook introvert.
So, how am I making it work when it comes to networking? I want to share with you my tips, tricks, and knowledge on how I overcame my fear of putting myself out there at member and community events, and how I am continuing to build professional relationships.
Having a networking buddy.
One thing that helped me overcome networking anxiety was sticking by another introverted Chamber employee at the event. This, for me, was a short-term solution, but it helped both of us learn from each other as we searched for other attendees to spark conversation with.
Remembering that others are there to network too.
It is helpful to remember that others are there to network and talk with other professionals. This is not a situation in which an individual’s goal is to simply observe. Keeping this in mind makes it easier to approach others. It also serves as a reminder that others may feel unsure about approaching you. Be the first to bridge that gap and make that connection!
Active listening and recall.
Paying attention to what others tell you is crucial, as well as allowing them to tell you about themselves. It shows that you are genuinely interested in them and invites them to continue to build this relationship with you in that moment and at future events. Something else that I have found beneficial to maintaining this relationship is the ability to ask follow-up questions at the next event or the next time you may run into them. It will let them know you listened and remembered something important about them. And while you may see them in a professional setting, I’ve always found it helps build a more trusting relationship if they share something with you about their personal life (if they volunteer this, of course).
Practice, practice, practice.
Feeling more comfortable with networking did not happen after the first, second, or even tenth networking event that I went to. In fact, I still sometimes struggle with approaching someone and striking up conversation. But little by little, I am able to do it more often, especially as I make even more connections and grow my own network.
Having confidence.
This, to me, may be my most important tip of all. Have confidence. Know that you are a valuable member of the business community, and your thoughts, experience, and conversation is meaningful and can benefit others around you. Do not feel as though you are a burden or a nuisance, but rather an excellent resource and an opportunity for others to advance professionally as well. Have confidence that your interaction with someone else is a two-way street to strengthening a connection and developing yourself professionally.
While these are my own tips and tricks, the U.S. Chamber also provides their own set of advice on how to be a better networker and connect with others around you.
Have a goal: Before attending, decide what you want to get out of the event.
Be approachable: Smile, make eye contact, and be open to conversation.
Focus on quality: Aim for a few meaningful conversations instead of collecting as many business cards as possible.
Be curious: Ask questions and listen actively.
Follow up: After the event, reach out to the people you met with a personalized email, LinkedIn message, or handwritten note.
Focus on giving: Instead of thinking of networking as a way to gain something for yourself, focus on how you can provide value to others.
You can find even more insight here at CO by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Whatever method(s) work for you, remember that, more often than not, other want to connect and will want to connect with you. Bring your best, know your worth, and put yourself out there!
Want to start somewhere? Connect with me, even if it is just to say “hi”! I can be reached at kbream@hanoverchamber.com.