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Overcoming The Fear Of Networking Insider

For many extroverts, networking is a piece of cake. They strive at any social event. This is not the same with introverts because many of us tend to avoid social scenes when we can. We are quieter, introspective and sometimes shy, which can make it difficult for us to overcome the fear of networking. But the reality is, networking is not a natural skill. It is a skill that is acquired through practice.

As an introvert, you can develop networking skills without altering your personality. And once you learn how to better interact with other people, you will experience exponential growth professionally and personally. To learn how to network, you need a plan that is practical and one that you can rely on. Let’s explore some strategies that can help you overcome your fear of networking.

Do Your Research

You don’t need to go to every event you are invited to or hear about. It would be pointless to attend an event, stay right through the end, and then come out feeling as if the time was wasted. This is why you need to do some research before attending an event. Be selective and only attend events that interest you and provides you the opportunity to meet like-minded people. Your goal is to overcome the apprehension associated with networking. But you cannot succeed at this if you force yourself to go to events for which you have no interest.

Set Some Goals

Make a few goals you want to achieve at the event. Ask yourself why you want to attend. Are you going mainly to meet a particular person for professional or business reasons? Or are you attending an event because you are only interested in what is being discussed? When you have a goal in mind of what you want to achieve, you’ll have a higher chance of making solid connections.

Practice Starting Conversations

I am not the best conversation starter. I mainly wait for other people to talk to me first. But if you want to curb your fear of networking, you must learn how to approach others confidently. Think of ways you can start a conversation before you attend an event. Keep it simple and informal.

A good tip is asking an easy question like “How did you hear about this event?” It’s a great way to get people to open up. It will also give you the confidence to ask more questions that connect you and the person you are interacting with.

Avoid Being Late

Getting to an event early can give you a great advantage in that you can get to familiarize yourself with the surroundings. Talk to some of the early birds as well, as this can boost your confidence and help you feel comfortable. Arriving late to an event where everyone is already conversing can be unsettling. For an introvert, you may find it difficult to join in the conversation and are more likely to leave without even talking to a single person.

Take a Friend

Taking a work colleague or friend to an event can be reassuring. Think of the person as your back up. They are the ones who can help you get conversations going. However, taking a friend who is equally introverted as you are might not be helpful. You both may end up conversing with only each other which beats the purpose of attending an event with the aim of networking.

Be Yourself

Sometimes this is easier said than done, but don’t put too much pressure on yourself to fit in or to avoid looking awkward and misplaced. If you are not ready to have a conversation with anyone, leave and try another day. It is better than to end up having a conversation where you feel like you are saying the wrong things. If this happens, it can only intensify your reluctance for networking.

Try to Relax

When you are anxious, it’s easy for people to tell that you are because your body language will spill the beans. If you look aloof and uncomfortable, people will avoid you.

People are drawn to others who exhibit warmth and confidence. So even though you may be terrified inside, don’t let it show physically. Loosen up and put a smile on your face. Look approachable and you’ll be surprised when people walk over to talk to you.

Final Remarks

No one attains success without the help of others. Even an introvert needs human connection to survive and thrive. And this sometimes means placing yourself in uncomfortable situations or trying something you have never tried before to achieve your goals.

Quiet