Power Networking for Introverts

Get involved at conferences

I recently attended the Internet Librarian conference in Monterey, CA. In addition to taking place in one of the lovliest locations in the U.S., this gathering of IT-focused info pros from all types of libraries offers a great mix of sessions, workshops, and keynotes. And lots of opportunities for networking among people with shared interests.

In spite of the stereotypes, this conference has its fair share of extroverted attendees. They're the ones that stay up late chatting in the bar, and they don't struggle with striking up a conversation at the workshop luncheon. They share ideas and business cards, and some will stay connected throughout the year - building their network of colleagues.

Then there are the rest of us. We never know what to say, and we exhaust ourselves just trying to make small talk. We know we should be networking, but we nevertheless find every excuse to scurry toward any place where we can be alone. So, how do introverts get any sort of networking done at conferences and trade shows?

The answer is to get involved. Find a way to volunteer for the planning committee, moderate some sessions, or become a speaker. I've presented at Internet Librarian and other conferences for several years, and I've learned that many speakers are, in fact, introverts. When you're involved, it's easy to connect with others that are involved. You have some common ground.

I'd also like to encourage conference planners to help the introverts get involved. Internet Librarian does a great job of this, with their interactive sessions on gadgets and new technologies.

So, don't just attend a conference - get involved. You'll meet the nicest people.

Conference networking, introvert style

I’ve been busy preparing for and attending the Special Libraries Association's (SLA) annual conference, where I presented two sessions. For those of you who are not familiar with SLA, it’s an organization of librarians and other information professionals. Members are experts in finding, using, managing, and sharing information, and they work in Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, universities, the government, their own companies, and other settings. More than 5,000 people attended this year's conference, which took place June 3-6 at the Colorado Convention Center.

A conference with 5,000+ attendees is a frightening place to be for an introvert. But somehow I managed to do some heavy networking and survive (more than a little weary, but I survived!). Fortunately, SLA offers networking opportunities in a variety of settings. You don’t have to attend the open houses or receptions that attract 300 people. Forget about walking into a large room that's full of strangers. You can go to division business meetings, early morning sessions, roundtables, and other events that tend to attract fewer attendees.

Not all conferences offer so many networking venues, so just try talking with the person seated near you in a session or standing behind you while you're waiting for the exhibit hall to open. If you are forced to go to a large event, keep an eye out for fellow introverts. They’re often standing on the side of the room, looking as if they’d rather be having root canal!

Conference prep

I’ve recently attended back-to-back conferences. For most introverts, conferences can be a grueling experience. I’ve found that the best way to get the most out of your conference, boost your confidence, and not die trying is to arrive well-prepared. Here’s how I get ready for a conference:

First, I get familiar with the conference and the venue. I look at who’s attending, sponsoring, or exhibiting. What are various tracks and sessions, and who’s speaking? Finally, what special events are taking place? Are there any must-see attractions?

Then I set some goals. Who do I want to meet? What do I want to be the outcome of these meetings? Are there people in my network who need to meet each other? Is there a particular topic or new technology that I can share with clients and colleagues?

Finally, I make a list of what I want to accomplish. And I make sure I bring everything I need, including business cards, contact information, and marketing materials. The last step is to set up some meetings ahead of time. I say “some” because sometimes the best encounters at conferences are spur-of-the moment.

Show us your name!

I’ve just returned from the annual conference of the Association of Independent Information Professionals (AIIP). While there, I heard a great conference networking tip from friend, colleague, and fellow introvert, Mary Ellen Bates. Mary Ellen suggests that when you pick up your conference packet, immediately throw away the lanyard  provided for hanging the name tag from your neck. With the lanyard, the tag always seems to turn around so the name can't be seen, and because of its length you usually have to stare at someone’s navel to read the tag. Use the pin to attach the tag near your right shoulder. Then it’s easy for people to read your name when they shake your hand.