If you would rather chew glass than engage in small talk, this resource is for you!

Here’s the good news: Not enjoying small talk is a powerful asset in effective networking.

If you tend to be introverted, I’m willing to bet you’re a good listener, and genuinely interested in meaningful connections. And meaningful connections is what it’s all about.

Here are 7 tips to help you make the most of a networking opportunity.

1. Mental preparation.

About them:

• Before reaching out, research who you want to meet. Read their bio or LinkedIn Profile. What do you have in common or what do you find interesting about them?
• It’s easier to connect with someone with whom you have some common ground, or you’re curious about their career path. When you get comfortable with this, you can branch out to people you don’t know.

About you:

• Prepare a 1-2-minute introduction. What do you want this person to know about you?

2. Energetic management.

Before a networking session, notice your energy level. Do you need a nap, move your body, or spend time in solitude?

Notice your energy during the conversation. If you get energized and enjoy the conversation, your energy may drop afterwards.

Give yourself time to recharge between conversations. Avoid back-back networking calls.

3. Set goals.

Start small.

Set a goal for time or number of connections you want to make each week or at an event.

For example:

• At a conference, consider an initial goal of 1-3 new connections per networking session. Choose a small, more intimate space, like the tables at the coffee kiosk.
• Instead of a 30- minute coffee, ask for a 15-minute conversation over the phone.

4. Leverage your deep listening skills to become curious about the other person.

Quality beats Quantity. Network one conversation at a time.

Show your genuine interest in what they have to say. People love feeling heard and being able to talk about themselves.

Ask follow-up questions and listen more than you talk. Also listen for how you may be able to help them.

5. Channel your inner extrovert!

Even if you don’t feel it, act as if you’re someone who enjoys meeting strangers.

Before you know it, you will feel it as real. You will likely need a recharge break afterwards, and you will have earned it!

6. Conversation opening examples.

“Hi, I’m [name]. Do you have any recommendations for sessions or speakers to attend/listen to during this event?”

“I read your bio and found your experience in [relevant industry or field] impressive. I want to introduce myself. I’m [Your Name].”

“Hi, I’m [name]. I’ve admired [your work/read your book/followed your career]. May I ask how [you chose this field/came up with the idea/what inspired your transition]?”

For additional tips and scripts for online networking, go HERE.

7. Play the long game.

If you can have 3-4 deep conversations with people who are doing what you want to do, without asking them to help you, you may be able to forge a friendship with that person and you don’t know where that will lead in the future.

Follow up after a connection is made with a brief note, arrange to meet again, in-person or for a virtual coffee.

Last words.

Being an introvert is an underrated asset when it comes to networking.

When you approach others with genuine interest and really listen to them, they will be open to talking to you.

When people feel heard, they will want to know you, and work with you!