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5 Tips for Introverted Professionals to Make the Most of Business Events and Social Gatherings
For a business executive or entrepreneur, networking is an important activity that leads to professional connections as well as business opportunities. In addition, social functions can help build your personal brand which in turn can greatly benefit your company. But for an introverted business leader, attending networking events might be the last thing on one’s mind. If the thought of walking into a room where you don’t know a single soul gives you anxiety, you are not alone. As an executive with business development as one of my responsibilities, I’ve relied on a few things to help me navigate through business and social events, from conferences to conventions and smaller meetings.
Prepare Ahead! Have Something to Say Before You Go
For most networking events, there is often a common theme or unique purpose around which the get-together is organized. Knowing this ahead of time will provide some questions one can use as an opening statement or question. Always a safe bet: asking whether this is someone’s first time to the event can lead to several other questions, such as the depth of the person’s involvement with the organization or insight on previous events. If necessary, practice small talk by focusing on the who, what, where, why and how aspects, such as: who are they, what is the name of their company, what purpose brought them to the event, why did they think the event is useful, and lastly, how did they find out about the event, and how did they think the event went? Don’t forget to keep the conversation brief and move on once you’ve learned all the basics about your new connection.
Bring a Friend
As the phrase goes, “two is better than one,” and having someone you know at an event full of strangers might be a very comforting experience. Another option is to make friends with someone at the beginning of the event and ask him or her if they’ll agree to accompany you to meet others throughout your time there. Once you’ve made a new friend, don’t forget to ask if they know anyone else to whom they can introduce you. The important thing to remember is that networking events are meant to be a fun way to connect with others. With practice, you’ll learn the best way to connect with others that fits your personality and character.
Create A Purpose For The Occasion
Setting a goal for why you are attending the event will help create meaningful approaches to meeting people. The goal can be as simple as generating three new solid connections where you introduce yourself, and the company for which you work, to someone completely new. Once you’ve reached your goal, any new connection is just a bonus! Don’t forget to follow up with your connections after the event. The more events you attend, the more familiar faces you’ll run into! Remember, building a solid connection is better than knowing several distant acquaintances.
Think Positively and Embrace Optimism
For introverts, the idea of mingling in crowded places might not seem like an ideal situation. While this might give you anxiety (which can lead to fear and ultimately will lead to you staying home instead of attending social and business functions), it is best to not think too much about the act of going. Instead, focus on what you’ll bring to the event by connecting with others and talking about yourself and your company. Other participants are there because they want to meet others and learn about new companies and products. Your presence at the event is precisely what the social function is all about.
Learn Your Strengths and Be Yourself
The most important thing is to learn where your strengths lie when it comes to being a part of a social event. Perhaps having a glass of wine is just what you need to feel relax, or maybe a pep talk with your closest friend before you head out will do the trick! Stay true to yourself and allow others to get to know who you are as a person and as a professional.
