There’s no escaping the need to network, so here are 5 You-Can-Do-It networking skills for millennial introverts.
5 You-Can-Do-It Networking Skills for Millennial Introverts
Networking happens. It happens all the time. Even if you’re an introvert, shy or just-don’t-like-to-network: if you’re going to be successful you must network.
Some of my favorite coachees are millennials who are introverts. I love watching their confidence grow as they learn some networking skills that ANYONE can do. So here are 5 You-Can-Do-It networking skills for millennial introverts.
At networking events, socials, parties, etc:
*Play a role. When you are at an event, you are not there to be “authentic”. Rather, you are branding your professional self. Imagine that the event is the stage of a play and you are one of the actors. Spend a little time creating a role for yourself:
- I’m a quiet but intelligent biologist…
- I’m a compassionate and helpful social worker…
- I’m a wise and thoughtful English major…
*Get your power non-verbals on. Before you enter the networking event, try these tricks:
- Before you go to the event, prop your feet up on a desk and place your arms behind your head (arms akimbo) for 2 minutes. This lowers your stress hormone- cortisol, and increases your confidence boosting hormone- testosterone.
- When you arrive, enter the room with your shoulders back, chin up and a slight smile. This is an invitational non-verbal, folks will want to talk to you.
- If you can keep something in your left hand such as business cards or a drink, you might feel more confident.
*Give yourself a job. Your job is to make someone else feel comfortable.
- When you arrive, scout the room. Find someone on the fringes who looks shy and alone.
- Introduce yourself and ask that person a question. In helping them feel welcome, you will have gained an ally and created some goodwill.
- Be sure to shake hands (practice your handshake so that it is gentle but firm).
- Introduce that person to someone else, if there is the opportunity.
*In day-to-day life, be a helper:
- Volunteer to help with special projects or events. This shows you are invested in the culture and can earn you good favor (and make you feel good, too).
*In day-to-day life, show genuine interest in people around you:
- Be a listener and encourager. Practice listening skills and saying uplifting things (no complaining or negativity).
- Talk well to yourself, “You can do it!” is a powerful phrase!
For more tips, download this freebie: Confidence-Building Skills for Meeting New People.
When you’re ready for the adventure of increasing your confidence for networking and relationship success, contact me.
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