By Katie Corbett
As an introvert, I have to go out of my way to meet new people. I’m less likely to talk with random strangers when in line at a grocery store, or in a waiting room before a dentist appointment.
When I read “The Introvert Entrepreneur,” by Beth Buelow, I valued that the author emphasized playing to your strengths. Here are some ways I have worked with my introversion and still meet new people.
- I go to events that have a purpose, so that I will have something in common with everyone there.
- I prepare ice-breaker questions I could ask when conversation slows down.
- I ask lots of questions in general to keep the conversation focused on the other person.
- If conversation goes well, I find another way to stay connected by swapping contact information.
- I set goals to have a conversation with a certain number of people at an event.
- I tell myself that after a certain amount of time at the event, I can leave.
- Depending on how loud the event is, I might find a quiet space or corner to recharge.
- If I know the host or can see the guest list, I look on it for people I already know.
- I only attend a set number of networking events per month.
- I make sure to grab a drink or snack right when I arrive so that I can take in the room without feeling the need to socialize right away.
By following these guidelines, I have made networking and meeting new people fun and manageable for myself. At every party, meeting, or networking event I attend, I almost always come away having deepened a friendship or having met someone new.
Do you plan to try one of these ideas the next time you are invited to an event? I’d love to hear how it goes for you, so feel free to leave a comment.
Want to get this info sent right to your in-box? Subscribe to my blog, so you’ll never miss a post.