2. In this workshop, we will:
• Discuss and demystify introversion
• Articulate the advantages introverts have in the
networking process
• Share tips, approaches and strategies to make your
networking experiences more fruitful and less stressful
9. Are you an Introvert or an Extrovert?
I prefer one-on-one conversations to group activities
I often express myself in writing
I require alone time after spending time with friends
I seem to care less about wealth, fame, and status less than
my peers
People tell me I’m a good listener
I’m not a big risk-taker
I enjoy work that allows to me “dive in” with few interruptions
I enjoy celebrating my birthday with a few people, rather than
a large group
I prefer not to show my work until it’s finished (or nearly so)
I tend to think before I speak
10. Common Myths About Networking
• Blurting things to strangers
• Giving a hard sales pitch
• Bragging
• Being someone or something you’re not
• Having the perfect thing to say
• Handing out your business card to everyone in the room
11. Top Tips
• Learn to appreciate your
introversion
• Don’t be afraid to be the one
to reach out
• Prioritize time to re-energize
12. Things You Can Do Without Even Trying!
• Wear a piece of jewelry that other people will want to
comment on or compliment .
13.
14. Adding Value to Existing Relationships
15 % of your networking effort
is devoted to meeting new
people
85% of your networking effort is
devoted to strengthening and
reviving existing relationships
15.
16. Networking Conversation Starters
The Classics
1. Hi, I don’t know too many people here, so I wanted to
introduce myself. I’m [name] and I work at [company].
2. So, what do you do?
3. So, what brought you here today?
4. How’s your day going?
5. What’s your story?
17. Networking Conversation Starters
Location, Location Location
1. I can’t stop eating these [food item]. Have you tried them
yet?
2.
How did you hear about this event?
3.
It’s so [hot/cold/stuffy] in here.
4.
I’m feeling pretty overwhelmed by the wealth of information
here today. Is there anything in particular that has stuck with
you?
5.
What a [beautiful] venue. Have you been here before?
18. Networking Conversation Starters
The Newsworthy
1. What do you think about [insert topic]?
2.
Wow, I just can’t believe all the crazy headlines today. What
a week!
3.
Any chance you read the news today? I missed it, and I’m
dying to know what’s happening with [insert news topic here].
4.
So, was it a pain for you to get here?
5.
Did you catch the game last night?
19. Networking Conversation Starters
The Totally Random
1. Any chance you know a great [sushi] place around
here? I’m not familiar with the area, and I’m headed out
to dinner after this.
2. Hey, aren’t you friends with [fill in random name]?
10 questions. If you answer 7+ you are probably an introvert.
Learn to optimize time spent with your ideas so you can be persuasive as possible when networking situations arise. Focus on speaking to one person at a time. I used to think that people wouldn’t want to meet me or even that I would make them uncomfortable. I learned over time that extending my hand with a smile and an introduction that my effort would be reciprocated. And hey, go ahead and just ask them about themselves to ease in to it and take the pressure off you! (Social Media has made this a lot easier! If you’re going to a conference, try emailing people first and let them you you’ll be there too and that you’re looking forward to meeting them. The “pre-introduction” makes things easier on the day-of. Take some time after your breakfast networking meeting and your next meeting.
This will help you connect personally!
How can an introvert join a conversation already in progress? Choose 1 cluster of people. Focus on 1 person. Ask, “Can I join you?”
How do you gracefully leave a conversation?
Grab a natural pause (or even an awkward one) in the conversation and say …
It’s been a pleasure, but I have to head out. How can I stay in contact? (Don’t say that last part if you don’t mean it)
Factor in energy preservation and quit time
Albert Einstein Warren BuffettJK RowlingMahatma GandhiAl GoreRosa Parks
