I used to dread networking events – the small talk was excruciating.

By: A Staff Writer

Updated on: Jul 29, 2024

The Reluctant Networker: NetworkingNewbie, Boston, MA

I used to dread networking events – the small talk was excruciating.

Hi, I’m NetworkingNewbie from Boston, MA, and I’m a classic introvert. The thought of walking into a room full of strangers and making small talk used to send me into a panic. I’d attend events out of obligation, but I’d spend most of the time hiding by the food table or trying to look busy on my phone.

How I Tackled It:

• Reframed my thinking: I shifted my focus from trying to “impress” people to genuinely connecting with them. I started viewing networking as an opportunity to learn and build relationships, not just a means to an end.
• Set small goals: Instead of aiming to meet everyone in the room, I’d set a goal of having three meaningful conversations. This made networking feel less overwhelming.
• Prepared conversation starters: I’d research the event and attendees beforehand, brainstorming a few open-ended questions to spark conversations.
• Practiced my “elevator pitch”: I crafted a concise introduction that highlighted my business and the problems I solved. This gave me confidence when meeting new people.
• Followed up: I’d send personalized emails or LinkedIn messages to the people I connected with, thanking them for their time and suggesting a follow-up meeting.

Networking doesn’t have to be torture. By reframing my approach, setting realistic goals, and practicing, I’ve turned networking into a valuable tool for growing my business and building meaningful relationships. If you’re an introvert like me, don’t give up on networking – find a way to make it work for you.