Women2Women - Spring 2018 - 32

Networking Tips
for Introverts

Networking Tips
for Extroverts

PHONE A FRIEND
If you can't bear the idea of entering a networking
event alone, invite a friend to join you.

ADJUST YOUR TONE
* Be in tune with the energy in the room. If it's a
high-octane event, you will fit in perfectly. But if it's
more subdued, adjust your voice and mannerisms
accordingly.

ARRIVE EARLY
* If you break out in a sweat thinking about entering
a room full of people or joining a table, arrive early
and stake your ground. That way, you are welcoming
those who enter the room or ask to sit at your table.
TAKE BREAKS
* Introverts need alone-time to recharge during networking events. There are several different ways
to regroup.
Go outside between sessions for a five-minute walk
If you're at an multi-day event, go back to your
hotel room between sessions or at the breaks and
soak in the silence
Attend only the sessions that are most relevant to you
Give yourself permission to arrive late or leave early
BE PREPARED WITH CONVERSATION STARTERS
* Do a little research before the event so that you can ask
relevant questions like, "Have you heard this speaker
before?" "What brings you to this event?" or "I'm
looking forward to the first session. How about you?"
LISTEN CLOSELY
* Your extroverted colleagues love to talk! Take advantage
of the opportunity and ask them questions. You will
be remembered as a good conversationalist.
SMILE
* Don't let your naturally reserved nature be confused
with being unfriendly. Make an effort to smile so that
you are approachable.

32 Women2Women Spring 2018

ASK OPEN-ENDED QUESTIONS
* Since your less-extroverted colleagues might be
uncomfortable with conversation starters, take the lead
and ask others about their line of work or company.
By helping them to engage, you will create a more
meaningful connection.
MAKE THE OTHER PERSON COMFORTABLE
* Diffuse any tension in the room with comments like,
"Is it just me, or does this seem weird?" This can put
your more introverted colleagues at ease and opens
the door to more relaxed conversation.
SEEK OUT A VARIETY OF PEOPLE TO SPEAK WITH
* You might never discover what is going on in the mind
of an introvert if you don't ask them. Since they will
be reluctant to initiate the conversation, engage them
and you might discover that your complementary
strengths are a great fit.
DEMONSTRATE YOUR OTHER STRENGTHS
* Extroverts' vibrant personalities are on full display. Try
to weave other aspects of your personality into the
conversation so you aren't viewed as one-dimensional.
FOCUS
* People notice when you are half-listening and looking
over their shoulder scanning the room. Give the
person you are speaking with your full attention and
gracefully excuse yourself during a natural break in
the conversation.

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Women2Women - Spring 2018