Power Networking for Introverts

Another good book

Building a network requires some basic skills. But some of these skills don’t come easily to introverts, including the ability to strike up a conversation. Even in today’s world of online communities, we are sometimes forced into face-to-face meetings. So, there you are at an association meeting, in a client’s hospitality suite, or having coffee with a colleague. After the introductions, then what? No, you can’t run from the room.

For help with this, try reading The Fine Art of Small Talk, by Debra Fine. With lots of humor, Debra Fine offers tips on what to say, what not to say, and other skills necessary for making conversation and building a network. I’ve had the opportunity to hear Debra Fine speak, both in person and on tape, and she’s a hoot! I think you’ll find her book one of those essentials for your power networking toolkit.

Get started in an association

Pick one or two organizations and get involved. Look for organizations where you might find your clients or your colleagues. Then get started. Most organizations host some type of new member orientation, so take advantage of it. You’ll find other newbies there, and I’m sure a few fellow introverts. You immediately meet members, and you already have something in common with them.

After you get to know the association, help them get to know you. Kim Dority, of G. K. Dority & Associates, Inc. (who always has great ideas!) shared a great tip with me. Send an e-mail or letter to board members and let them know what you do, list your skills, and ask which committee best matches your skills. You get to know the leadership of an organization, they get to know you, and you’ll enjoy your volunteer experience.

It's Not All About You

You build a network to help others. We all want to be able to help our friends, family, and colleagues when they need us. Think how nice it is to connect an in-law who is struggling with some serious health issues, with one of the top doctors in the state. What about the friend of a friend who needs some help getting her business off the ground? Putting her in touch with your business coach is a great way to lend a hand. And it's a good feeling when you know just the right person to call when a client says, “I’d love to start this project, but what I really need right now is a good writer." Yes, we are frequently on the receiving end when it comes to our valuable connections, but the real joy is in helping others. That’s your reward for all your hard work.

Good advice

Networking  has a bad image. Just say the word, and it most people think of a bunch of strangers having meaningless conversations, exchanging business card, and moving on to the next stranger. But networking is all about relationships – meaningful relationships. In his book, Never Eat Alone, Keith Ferrazzi urges readers to think about connecting, rather than networking. Here’s how he defines connecting: “sharing my knowledge and resources, time and energy, friends and associates, and empathy and compassion in a continual effort to provide value to others, while coincidentally increasing my own.” I like that advice, especially from an introvert’s point of view. Connecting sounds more meaningful - and it’s definitely not quite a scary as networking.