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Sure, networking demands connecting with new people through events and gatherings, but it doesn’t imply that an introvert, who usually chooses to stay away from the crowd, cannot build a strong professional network. This is why it’s important to debunk this myth.
Now, before we find the right set of strategies to help introverts weave an extensive network, let’s first understand if personality traits actually impact an individual’s networking skills.
Do personality traits matter when it comes to networking?
Personality attributes can provide a starting point but have no bearing on how one can hone networking skills, says Jaideep Kewalramani, COO & Head of Employability Business, TeamLease Edtech, a learning solutions provider.Extroverts might find it simpler to start discussions and flourish in social settings. However, he says, introverts have extraordinary qualities that give them an advantage. They are active listeners, perceptive and smart communicators, which are fundamental characteristics in building connections. Hence, it would be incorrect to conclude that networking is only for extroverts.
A few challenges introverts have to overcome
Based on several studies, experts indicate that introverts may experience certain difficulties like feeling overwhelmed in large gatherings, approaching strangers, exchanging smiles or head nods, initiating small talk, striking conversations, or finding it difficult to enter into an ongoing discussion, according to Kewalramani. Apart from these, he also lists a few changes like an increase in heart rate, perspiration, or dryness in the mouth that an individual might experience. But again, these are not just associated with introversion, as he says even the best orators go through this when their environment is changed.
Effective strategies to overcome interaction anxiety
To begin with, Kewalramani says engaging in networking opportunities at events where you are very comfortable with the subject matter or the environment might help you open up easily. Next, identify a specific set of people you may want to network with rather than trying to strike up a chat with anyone and everyone.
Once you know the person you wish to interact with, he says the trick is to approach them with non-verbal cues like a smile, good eye contact, and a head nod. This will allow the other person to start a verbal conversation with you, and then you can easily reciprocate.
At the same time, to maintain a flow in your conversation, he advises individuals to prepare for some thought-provoking statements, questions and observations in advance, and also occasionally nod their head to display genuine interest in what the other person has to say.
Doing an analysis of what worked for you and what did not can make it simpler for you to improve and refine your networking skills. Lastly, sending out thank you notes to your connections and following up with them can help maintain your professional relationships, he adds.
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