Five Networking Tips for People Who Hate Networking

Some people are built for crowds and speaking to strangers. Others are more introverted, preferring to converse with those they know rather than forcing themselves to make new connections.

Ultimately, professional success in most capacities is built on networking. Whether you’re a recent graduate seeking a job or a seasoned professional looking for new clients, your ability to network will be a driving force behind your success.

You don’t want your hatred for networking and forced conversations to hinder your professional development. If you find yourself in this position, here are five simple tips to help you gain a little more traction.

1.    Bridge the gap

Even the most introverted people have little problem speaking with close friends or relatives. It’s strangers that tend to make new conversations awkward.

One great way to overcome this hurdle is to use current connections as a means of introduction. LinkedIn, for example, relies on this feature. But it doesn’t exist only in a digital setting.

It’s a lot less awkward to speak with someone for the first time if you have a mutual connection that has facilitated the conversation or is there with you.

2.    Start small

For many of you, your hatred of networking has prevented you from gaining much experience. You may not even know how to start. One great way to get your feet wet is to start networking in your immediate circle.

For example, if you’re a college student, start by meeting your classmates. Then work your way to professors and faculty. Then try your hand at professionals. This allows you to get familiar with networking in low-risk situations and hone skills for later.

3.    Do it your way

Some people are more comfortable speaking with others face-to-face. Others prefer email or phone calls.

Choose whichever medium allows you to be your natural self. Now, be aware, others may not have the same preferred medium. Or they will eventually want to meet in person. That’s fine. But for initial conversations, play to your strengths.

4.    Set goals

Peter Drucker, the great management consultant (and Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient) once said: “if you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it.”

Goal setting is essential in every aspect of our lives. Improving networking abilities is no different. Setting a goal of how many people to reach out to over how much time can be a great way of holding yourself accountable and getting things done.

Maybe it’s one a day or one a week. Start small and build on your successes.

5.     Pick a line

Pick a line doesn’t mean having a prepared elevator pitch. It’s much more literal and practical than that. Pick an actual line.

If you find yourself at a social or networking event, but don’t know how to start approaching anyone, find a line to stand in. It doesn’t matter if it’s a vendor line or a snack line. The longer the better. In this situation you can easily strike up a conversation with the person on either side of you.

Take a baby step, good luck, and start with hello!