Networking Tips for Introverted Entrepreneurs

I am so excited about the topic of networking this month! Although networking is an important aspect of building a business, many quiet-natured entrepreneurs cringe at the thought of attending networking events, and would actually prefer to skip out on going to another event instead of enduring the uncomfortable, awkward and sometimes "fake" atmosphere that many of us have experienced. I know, because I used to feel this way too.

One of the reasons why introverted entrepreneurs dislike networking events is because there are simply too many damn people! There's the pressure to talk with everyone, get to know everyone, "work the room" and collect all of these business cards, but it can feel so inauthentic and pretensive.....UNLESS you know how to navigate the scene in the right way that feels good, and most of us haven't been taught how to do that.

This week, I want to invite you to let go of the need to interact with everyone you meet at a networking event. You don't need to have a conversation with everyone. You don't need everyone's business card. You don't need to end up exhausted and drained from trying to connect with everyone. All you need is ONE. All you need is to connect with just one person, and to feel good about that connection. That's it. Imagine creating a community over time of people that you have come to know very well, as a result of investing your time and energy wisely in those relationships. I don't know about you, but I would prefer connecting deeply with one person at a time instead of casually getting to know a whole bunch of people. Here's how you do it...

1. Before attending your next networking event, create an intention around how you want to feel during and after the event.

2. Get clear around the type of person you would enjoy connecting with at the event. This could be a referral partner, potential client, a service provider you need, etc.

3. Remind yourself that you are focussing on connecting meaningfully with just one person at this event. Of course, this doesn't mean that you're planning to ignore everyone else :) , but having this intention will allow you to feel more in control and confident, which in turn will help you to enjoy getting to know this person much more. Positive connections are key!
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