You’re standing at the edge of the crowd, maybe by the bar or the over-catered finger food, you’re looking into the crowd (no-one in particular) of people in tight circles with a tighter feeling in your chest. Just let me know when this stops sounding familiar.
As a recent graduate, networking is especially important to become familiar with people within your industry. It’s a skill that will continue to be important throughout your whole career. However, networking isn’t just for extroverted people, or introverts forcing themselves to be extroverts.
In this article, we’ll discuss five tips to networking as an introvert. We’ll take you from nervously getting ready in your room, through to following up with the people you met after the event.
1. Pick the right event
When picking the type of networking event you’re going to go to, it’s a good idea to consider how it will compliment your introverted nature.
It’s important to realise that introverted people aren’t worse than extroverted people at networking, but that it’s instead just a difference in how they replenish their energy. Extroverted people get energy by being around others while introverted people prefer being alone. However, it doesn’t mean being introverted means you always want to be alone, just that you’ll need breaks from people.
When choosing an event you may want to play to your strengths. Consider events that have a smaller number of people or are themed in a way that makes it more accessible to you as an introverted person.
My recent experience of this was at a small networking event for archaeologists I went to with a friend. Networking was a new experience for her, so the fact it was in a small venue, with at least one person she knew would be there, and a halloween party which allowed for natural talking points, meant it complimented where she was well.
You may also choose to go the route of one-on-one networking where you reach out to people you want to meet either over email or Direct Message to meet up. Although emailing or direct messages might not be as personal as meeting face-to-face, this may be a less daunting alternative and can be a great way to get your foot in the door!
2. Find a networking partner
If you want to go to a larger event, or don’t know someone there, you may want to go with someone you know who is more extroverted and outgoing.
Their role is to support you through introductions, or help with conversation, but not take the spotlight away from yourself. They’re like a wingman for you!
As the designated wingman for my friend, I would mention achievements of hers when it was relevant to talk her up or fill gaps in conversation when things petered out. If you’re the networking partner just play it by ear!
3. It’s the quality of interactions, not quantity
Your goal going into this networking event doesn’t have to be getting as many business cards and introductions as you can before you go home. Instead it’s about the quality of the interaction which will make for stronger connections and relationships.
My friend's networking event had 25-odd people at it, but we spoke to maybe three of them (one we already knew). Not only was that more manageable but made for deeper conversation and what is more likely to be a long lasting connection.
Focusing on having a few strong conversations will also mean you can take more time to step back from people. It could be to get a drink, some food, or just go to the toilet. These are brief moments to refill your battery and work with being introverted instead of against it.
4. It might be awkward, but that’s normal
Human conversation is messy and that’s for everyone - so don’t stress too much about it being awkward! Listen attentively, answer in ways that will progress the conversation, and don’t rush to fill quiet lulls in between ideas. If you try not to focus on making it perfect then you’ll be more like yourself and I’m confident that should be enough.
5. You did it! Now we need to follow up
The event has come to a close, if you’re me you can take off your Beanie Baby costume, and you can go home! It’s not over yet though.
After speaking to a handful of people you may want to stay in touch. To make this conversation a long term relationship, reach out via DM or email. Be short and polite but personalised. You can mention something you talked about at the event, and show gratitude for their time while showing interest in staying in contact. See our complete guide on how to reach out to recruiters (with a message template!) here.
With these tips we hope you not only see being introverted as a strength, but that your next networking event will be as fruitful as you hope!
 | About The Author Sam is a Media and Communications (journalism) student at La Trobe University. He's been writing for various outlets since he was 16 and recently completed an internship at the Herald Sun. He's passionate about what makes people tick, from their interests to their motivations. |