Are you someone who hates large groups, sweats at the idea of talking to random people, and would be found sticking to the wall nursing a drink rather than at the centre of a group of people? Does the idea of attending networking event where you are supposed to schmooze and woo people seem like torture? And given how important networking is, it’s like a stone around your neck? Then this blog is precisely for you.
First of all, let’s redefine networking. Think of it as building new relationships rather than a schmooze and woo event. The idea is to find people you would like to get to know and can find some common ground with. Secondly, understand that networking is a learnable skill. Just because you find the idea daunting does not mean you cannot do a good job. How? Read on to find out.
Prepare
Before you have to attend any event, think about why you need to do this and what you want to get out of it. Try to get some information about the people who are likely to be at the event. This will give you a chance to think about something you might be able to connect with them on, and the prospect of meeting them will not remain as intimidating. It’s also a good idea to prepare some lines of introduction or conversation openers in advance. Also arrive early so that you don’t have to break into already formed groups but can control your interactions better.
Set a limit
This is one simple way to avoid being overwhelmed by the process. You can set two kinds of limits – one is a goal in terms of a number of people you want to interact with, and/or in terms of the time you should spend at the event. Once you reach your limit, you can choose to continue if you are having a good time. Or you can give yourself a pat on your back for a job well done and go home in peace. Setting a limit means that there is no pressure of indefinite and vague goals.
Maintain eye contact and an open body language.
Going up to people sounds tough? Don’t worry. Smile and keep an open body language and people will come up to you to talk. Remember, everyone at the event is there to get to know more people, and if you look approachable, chances are others will keep approaching. Then all you need to do is pick who you want to respond to and for how long.
Questions are your best friend
Asking questions is a great way to get a conversation going. Firstly, the other person will do the talking while you get to listen without the burden of speaking unless you want to. Secondly, it gives you a chance to get to know someone and their thoughts, likes etc. That will help in formulating your responses and if you like the person, give you a foundation to build a stronger relationship.
Dont compare
Most important of all, do not compare yourself to the people flitting happily from one group to another or those gregarious lives of the party. Not everyone is or has to be the same to get what they need from the event. Identify your strengths and play to them. If you are best at one on one conversations, use the event to get a basic introduction and follow up immediately to set up a personal meeting. Beating yourself up because you can’t be what you are not is not going to be productive.
Networking will likely be an ongoing process so identify what makes you most uncomfortable and either find some system that will support you, or creative ways to sidestep that part of the process.
