7 Networking Tips for Introverts

You have probably heard the statistics – many sources such as LinkedIn, Forbes, and the Harvard Business Review claim that 60 – 80% of jobs are found or secured through some form of networking. For people who are shy or naturally more introverted, this sounds like the kiss of death. However, it doesn’t need to be.

 1. Realize what networking is and is not

 First of all, most job search experts and formal studies indicate that “some form of networking” is beneficial for the job search. This is encouraging because it includes one-on-one contacts, social media, tapping existing connections, and reaching out to past employers and co-workers. Networking is more than just reaching out to strangers and pressuring them to do favors for you, such as walking your resume down to the hiring manager. In fact, that rarely works.

 Networking is far more expansive than most people realize. Even Aunt Martha telling you about a job opening she heard about from a friend at church is technically finding a job through networking. So don’t be intimidated by the 80% or more figure. It’s a lot easier to reach that many contacts than you think.

 2. Find the networking channels that work for you

 Not all networking channels or strategies will be effective, especially if the entire idea of one technique strikes fear in your heart. A classic example of this is large networking groups.

 While I’m not an introvert, I personally hate large networking groups. When I started my business, I dreaded going to large business after-hours events but felt obligated to do it as I heard it was a “good idea.” I found a room filled with 300 people, all just shuffling business cards at each other. Of course, I never gained any valuable connections through this method, primarily because I never felt comfortable in the environment. I constantly checked my watch to determine how soon I could leave.

 For your own networking strategies, think about what you are most likely to do regularly. Is it messaging your existing contacts? Is it attending classes? How about researching key managers at target companies and approaching them through email? Don’t forget about getting involved in Groups on LinkedIn. Write down at least 3 to 4 different tactics you are most likely to do, and then incorporate them into your weekly job search activities.

3. Check out small groups for different interests

 If the cattle call environment doesn’t work for you, focus on small networking groups. www.Meetup.com  is a great source for finding places where people are meeting face-to-face. These don’t have to be specifically related to job searching. Common interests, hobbies, and fun activities can be a great way to get used to meeting new people in a low-pressure environment.

 There are small, supportive groups for job seekers, such as my own, in the Denver metro area: http://www.meetup.com/Brown-Bag-Job-Search-Group/  By staying under 20 people, this creates a genuine atmosphere that isn’t overwhelming to the introverted job seeker.

 4. Reach out to individuals before attending a large event

 At times, attending a large event is extremely helpful for your job search. To ease into it, reach out to individuals that you know will be there and make a plan to meet them.

 For example, one of my professional associations, Mile High SHRM, holds an annual conference. Drawing over 400 private service professionals from the Denver metro area can be intimidating for a newcomer. However, several have already reached out to me personally, planning to grab lunch or coffee at the event. This way, they know they will have some one-on-one time with someone, not just walking into an event filled with strangers.

 5. Practice your personal introduction

 By now, you’ve probably heard of the “elevator speech” – a prepared and practiced personal introduction to break the ice with someone you just met. Most people consider this a commercial or pitch to convey who you are, what you can do for someone, and what you offer.

 Be sure to write out and practice your introduction before meeting with anyone. Listen for how it sounds: is it genuine, sincere, and honest? An elevator speech that reflects who you are and is not just a gimmick will be easier to remember and make a better first impression.

 6. Listen more than you speak

 This is where the introvert’s strength works in their favor. Introverts are masters of observation, quietly taking in the details and paying attention to what’s going on. In networking situations, this comes across as someone who listens well. In general, people like to talk about themselves, especially to someone who is paying attention. With just a few prompting questions, you can get the other person to lead the conversation and leave a great impression at the same time.

7. Follow up

 The real value of any networking tactic is following up. Whether writing a personal message to a new social media contact or emailing a person after an event, following up is the key to solidifying the relationship and building positive results. After all, you don’t want to go through all of the uncomfortableness of unfamiliar networking just to let your efforts fall flat.