Brian Tracy gives seven networking tips for introverts: prepare ahead, bring a buddy, smile, set goals, think of yourself as welcome, stay present in conversations, and choose events that fit you. Introverts can excel at networking with the right strategy.
Hello, I'm Brian Tracy and if you're an introvert, I'd like to give you some networking tips. By and large, when it comes to business and career advancement, we're living in an extrovert's world. This is especially true when you are looking at the more social aspects of success in the business world, such as networking, which can sometimes be a challenge for people who are not comfortable with big crowds and large amounts of interactions with strangers. With all of that said, there are still plenty of traits common to introverts that help set them up for success as well. And with the right preparation, an introvert will have no problem excelling even at the social aspects of business such as networking. If you're an introvert looking for a way to make valuable connections with the same ease as your extrovert associates, here are a few tips you can use to take your networking to the next level. First, Prepare ahead of time. Most introverts are naturally good at planning and preparation, and this plays to their advantage when it comes to networking. Spend a little time ironing out the finer details such as how you will open conversations, what your goals for those conversations are, and what questions you intend to ask, as well as a little time mentally preparing yourself for the event and getting in the right frame of mind. Most of the time, advance preparation such as this will go a long way to making sure that you're on top of your social game when the time comes. Second, find a buddy to go with you. Sticking close to a buddy that you are going to comfortable with is a great way to ease your nerves a little, especially if they are an extrovert and you can rely on them to fill gaps in the conversation, feed off their energy, bounce your own remarks off of theirs, and retreat back and talk with them one on one when you need to. You'll likely find that this is much more comfortable and natural for you than going it alone. Third, smile. Your smile is one of the most useful social tools you have at your disposal. It can be used to disarm people and put them at ease in a matter of seconds, giving them a positive impression of you before you ever say a word. Introverts are often guilty of not making use of their smile and eye contact as much as extroverts. However, with little focus, a warm, friendly smile is a trait that is incredibly easy to adopt. Fourth, set goals. Before you ever arrive at a networking event, you should set goals for who you want to meet and what you hope to accomplish through those interactions. If you keep those goals at the front of your mind and treat networking as a task necessary to accomplish those goals. It will strengthen your resolve and help you push past any shyness that may otherwise hold you back. Fifth, think of yourself as being welcome wherever you go. Remember that everyone at a networking event is there for the same reason that you are, and it's likely that many of them are uncomfortable and nervous as well. With that in mind, think of how incredibly grateful they will be if you are the one that walks up to them and starts the conversation. Introverts have a tendency to think that others will view them negatively if they are overly social. However, nothing is further from the truth, especially at a networking event. Sixth, stay in the moment. Once you manage to strike up a conversation with someone, it's important to be present in that conversation rather than strategizing about the next person you plan to approach. Keep your focus in the moment and on the conversation at hand. Ask the person questions and truly listen to what they have to say. If you stay focused on one conversation at a time, the person you are talking with will likely notice and appreciate your attentiveness and interest. And seventh, pick the right event. Some events are going to be more comfortable for introverts than others. For example, if you're an introvert, you will likely find striking up conversations a lot easier at a small, relaxed event than you would at a booze filled, extravagant one with 500 plus people in attendance. While you should certainly go to every event that you can and practice getting better at networking at events that are outside your comfort zone, it's also important to focus on those events where you'll have the greatest chance of being at your best and use those events to your advantage. Before we wrap up, I'd like to leave you with a thought to share with your friends and followers. If a person advances confidently in the direction of their dreams, they will experience a success unknown in common times. That's from Henry Thoreau. I'd love to hear from you. So my question today is does networking come easily for you or do you struggle with it? Leave a comment below and I'll be sure to follow up with you. Thanks for watching. And remember, if you want to change your future, take action and take action now. If you enjoyed this video and feel it was valuable in teaching you about networking for introverts, subscribe to my channel like this video and share this video with your friends. Don't forget to click the button on the screen for a free gift. Thanks again for watching.
