empowered networking for introverts

O p p o r t u n i t y b e y o n d h a n d s h a k e

EMPOWERED NETWORKING

for INTROVERTS

• Is it true that introverts do not like to network? • Does the thought of entering a room full of people horrify you?

O p p o r t u n i t y b e y o n d h a n d s h a k e Empowered Networking for INTROVERTS

"I can't hold a conversation." "I find it tiring to be around lots of other people."

Do these statements describe you?


YOU CAN OVERCOME!

“ Networking is a learned behaviour, very much like learning to swim or cycle. Most people are not born networkers - it does not come naturally to them. Equip yourself with the right mindset, education, training, exposure, and lots of practice, and you can become great at networking.” ~ MERVIN YEO

Empowered Networking for INTROVERTS


• They think before they speak. They are thoughtful and prepared. • They focus on one thing at a time especially with the person they are talking to. • They are good listeners. They prefer to listen more than talk. • They are observant. • They make better decisions.

ATTRIBUTES OF INTROVERTS



INTROVERTS MAKE GOOD NETWORKERS

In a networking session, would you prefer to mingle with someone who talks about themselves all the time, or someone who listens attentively? The introvert dislikes making small talk and do not have a loud sales pitch. As salespeople, they are more subtle than aggressive.



Tip 1: JOIN SMALLER GROUPS

Socialising in large groups may not work for introverts. Join small networking groups. Start small and gradually develop your networking muscle.



Tip 2: ARRIVE EARLY

Arrive early at the event or meeting when the crowd is small. You will find it less intimidating. This gives you time to warm up to the people and the environment.



TIP 3: JOIN A REGULAR GROUP

Pick a networking group which meets regularly. You may be quiet during the first few meetings, but you will start to see familiar faces. After several meetings, you will begin to feel more comfortable.



TIP 4: BRING A FRIEND

If you do not feel comfortable going to a networking event alone, bring along a co-worker, a friend, or a business associate.



TIP 5: ASK QUESTIONS

Capitalise on your strength of listening well by asking prepared questions. Be curious to find out more. Be totally present during the conversation. Listen attentively to their stories.



[email protected]

How introverted am I?

How can I be more confident in networking?

MERVIN

If you have any of these questions…



Networking Evangelist, Speaker, Author

Mervin Yeo, a contributing author in New York Times best-seller “Masters of Networking”, provides training, consulting, and mentoring to business professionals on purposeful networking and strategic referral marketing. A published author of numerous books, he lives and breathes, speaks and teaches the language of referrals.

mervinyeo.com

empowered networking for introverts

Business