Networking

Myself being an introvert, it's nice especially when I can help my clients gain an advantage introverted possible. We live in a world that favors extroversion, and when it comes to networking, introverts feel disadvantaged. But there are strategies and approaches that we use to be on a par with our counterparts extrovert.

Before going into these strategies, I wanted to point out some common misconceptions about introverts. Athe most common is that we are, by definition, wallflowers shy and unsociable. But these features are really unrelated to introversion. The real definition should do with where we derive our energy. Introverts tend to feel anxious if they were faced with a series of professional or social events in a short period of time. So to answer this concern, we need to "recharge" the batteries more often with more "alone" time. We derive our energy into ourselves in relation to others (as is the casewith extroverts.)

Another myth is that we are a small percentage of the world, but in fact about 25% of the population falls into the category introverted. Finally, many people believe that it is a learned behavior, but in reality there is much evidence suggesting a biological basis for introversion. In other words, people are more or less hard-wired "to be introverted or extroverted. But this does not mean that even strong introverts are not able to exhibit outward-likebehavior on occasion, and vice versa.

In addition to taking time to reload, there are many strategies to make networking a more positive, productive and enjoyable experience. For example:
Bring a friend to an event, but agreed to separate for at least part time. This forces you to interact with others, but it may help reduce your anxiety level.
Commit to a number of networking activities each day (or week). Reward yourself for a meeting orsuperior to anything that goal you set for yourself.
Examine the letter writing as an alternative to telephone calls. And do not underestimate the power of virtual networks on sites like LinkedIn and Facebook, for example, is designed to do much of the fieldwork that you normally would in a more traditional networks. But do not count only the virtual networking. A combination is ideal.
Pace yourself. Do not schedule a full day of networkingactivities if you attend an event of the evening.
If breaking the ice is a challenge for you, remember to keep in simple terms: for example, talk time or offer a compliment can be effective for a conversation.
Above all, RELAX! If you're afraid to approach others at a networking event, keep in mind that chances are the whole world there is a certain degree of fear (even extroverted!), And the desire to approach you.