A guide to professional networking for introverts

In the world of business, networking is perhaps even more important than an excellent education. Sure, knowledge and skills can take you far. But it’s the contacts you have that will help you to reach new opportunities.

Unfortunately, networking is something that people can struggle with. The problem gets worse if you are reserved. When you are an introvert, creating connections can be a trial. Some people also feel that there is an element of insincerity in networking – a fear of manipulating others. As a result, it is easier for a bashful person to stay in his or her comfort zones. To avoid building connections, just relying on skills and lady luck to get ahead.

However, what you need to realise is that networking goes both ways. It is not a matter of one person endlessly using the other. It is a mutually beneficial relationship where both parties benefit from a good relationship.

So if you are an introvert struggling with networking, you need to step outside the safety of your own head. Making connections will help your career in numerous ways. And luckily for you, the art of making friends at work is really not that complicated.

Start small

As an introvert myself, I can fully appreciate the anxiety of having to interact with people you barely know. So instead of tackling an entire room of strangers, start small. Making new business contacts is important, but so is networking within your own company.

Approach a colleague you know in passing. Slowly start to get to know them. One successful conversation can give you the courage to enter into another.

A smile can go a long way when you are networking

A smile is one of your biggest assets when it comes to greeting new people. If you look happy, other people will automatically respond positively.

Constantly interacting with others can often exhaust you if you are an introvert. However, wearing your feelings on your sleeves will not help you make any friends. Focus on staying positive. Begin a conversation with someone approachable. Chances are if you convince them that you are worth getting to know, they will introduce you to like-minded people they are in contact with as well.

Take an interest

I used to struggle with starting conversations with strangers. I despise small talk and talking about the weather always made me feel foolish. That, in turn, made me even more unwilling to open up to others.

One tip a senior colleague gave me was to be interested in other people. Sure, you don’t have to learn about the family birthdays, anniversaries and other milestones. Simply get to know them on a more personal level. If you are struggling with feeling like networking is just using people, this will make it feel like less of a business deal.

Above all listen. Some people just start conversing for the pleasure of conversing. If you are shy, you are used to listening rather than talking. Turn that into an advantage. When a person has an attentive listener, they are likely to talk more. You don’t even have to speak much. As long as you listen sincerely and take an interest in what they have to say, they will walk away remembering you as a good conversationalist.

Timing and networking

Walking up to a group of people enjoying themselves is intimidating. It is even more intimidating trying to insert yourself into their conversation. If you are shy, you will definitely fear that your voice will go unheard.

So hang back and observe for a few minutes. That way, you can get a better idea of their topic of conversation and group dynamic. It will also give you a time to settle on the stance you want to take and how to communicate your ideas. When there is a lull in the conversation, you can voice your observations or pose a question to get the conversation going.

Pay attention when you are networking

People often struggle with remembering names. However, it is also something that will make a strong impression. Make an effort to remember the name of a person you meet. Then, use their name when you have to address them.

It sounds like a small thing. But it is always nice to be remembered. And if you make an effort with their name, it will also show them how genuine you are.

Keep your word

If you promise to exchange information with a new contact, make sure to follow up on it. Show that you are a person of your words and not someone that just talks a big game.

Networking is just as important within the office

Having a professional network is fine and good. But you can’t ignore interpersonal connections within the office too. Professional contacts can lead you to new business opportunities. But a strong and positive relationship with your colleagues at work has more immediate and continuous benefits.

Networking at work is tough. If you are shy and new to a job, you can feel like a bit of an outsider. Sometimes it may even take you a while to start conversations with people you don’t work with closely. And even then, you may not go beyond the bare necessities.

However, a strong support system at work can be a godsend. Networking with clients and colleagues outside work is important. But so is building lasting connections within the company. So how do you go about doing so?

Volunteer for projects

A great way to meet new people is to join some activity your company hosts. For instance, you can take an interest in their CSR projects. Since these projects are typically outside normal business matters, the meetings are more relaxed and friendly. That doesn’t mean you can or should goof off. Simply use the opportunity to get to know your colleagues without the pressure of deadlines and other official tasks. Then when you have to meet them in a more professional capacity, it will be easier for you to form a working relationship that suits all.

Networking or gossiping

In order to build strong connections, you have to prove yourself to others. Remember to keep confidentialities. No one likes a gossip. And while the office grapevine may be thriving without your help, don’t feel tempted to water it yourself.

At the same time, be sure to know the people you are talking with. Others may not necessarily share your integrity. So if you have a project you are keeping under wraps, don’t discuss it with everyone. If you have sensitive information, try to keep it to yourself or a select few trusted colleagues.

Keep complaints to a minimum

It wouldn’t do to badmouth your job or your colleagues with others. Especially if you work in a small company, be careful about complaining. When the office is small, chances are high that what you say will eventually reach the person you are complaining about.

In such a case, it will create tension for everyone. Not to mention, you won’t be making a lot of friends yourself. If you have an issue with someone, simply discuss it privately.