POV: you're in a room full of fellow industry professionals—everyone is chatting, laughing and schmoozing their way to brand partnerships and PR opportunities. But you're standing in the corner, avoiding eye contact and hoping no one notices your sweaty palms! Sound familiar? Don't worry we get it. Networking can be daunting but it is a great way to create industry connections, unlock exciting opportunities, and grow your business—and being an introvert is not going to hold you back!
Some say you need to be an extrovert to master the art of networking—not true. In fact, being an introvert might even be your biggest selling point. Tip: networking is about listening, not talking. This article is a guide to networking for introverts from all corners of the creative industries, packed with practical tips and proven strategies to help you overcome the challenges of networking. Follow this guide and feel confident walking into your next networking event... but then feel free to cosy up with your dog and a cuppa after!
Five Networking Tips For Introverted Creative Entrepreneurs
Introversion is not an obstacle. Here are five tips to get you started in building your social connections with potential clients and fellow industry professionals.
Prepare ahead of time
Adequate preparation before a networking event can ease your anxiety, help you to introduce yourself with confidence and allows you to decide what you want to gain from the experience. Here are a few ways you can prepare yourself for a networking event:
- Prepare and rehearse an elevator pitch. Your elevator pitch should describe your work, your ethos and your experience to date. It serves as a great conversation starter or a reliable talking point.
- Familiarise yourself with the attendees. Create a mental list of the individuals you wish to engage with and prepare some questions you'd like to ask them. You'll feel more comfortable approaching strangers if you know you can hold a good conversation ad they'll likely be flattered by your thoughtful questions.
- Plan your route. It may sound silly, but removing any worries you have about getting to the event, being late, parking etc. will help to keep you relaxed on the day, which will translate into how you feel at the event itself. Remember: there is no such thing as too much prep!
Think about your non-verbal cues
If you don't feel at ease in social situations, your body language will give you away. But don't worry, it is nothing you can't fix with research and practice. If you are aware of common indicators of nerves or stress in your body language, you can learn to avoid them. Here are some examples of nervous body language and how to combat them:
The problem: Avoiding eye contact
The fix: Maintain eye contact to show you are attentive. We promise it's not as scary as it sounds.
The problem: Crossed arms
The fix: Consciously keep your body language open and relaxed to appear approachable.
The problem: Fidgeting
The fix: Keep your hands soft and relaxed and avoid having anything to fidget with in your pockets. Instead, demonstrate you are focused on the conversation at hand by nodding and offering engaged responses.
Other nonverbal cues that convey confidence and approachability include using a firm handshake, having a genuine smile, and maintaining a good posture. Additionally, mirroring the body language and tone of conversation partners can foster a sense of connection and rapport.
Find a friend
Things are less scary when you've got a friend by your side and networking is no different. Invite a fellow entrepreneur to join you at an event or organise to meet up with familiar faces that you know will be attending. The presence of an existing connection will provide a comfortable foundation, making other social interactions easier to initiate and navigate.
Bonus: your existing connections will be able to introduce you to their connections. It is always easier to meet someone via a mutual acquaintance and serves as a good conversation starter. Just be careful not to rely on your buddy and use them as an excuse to avoid exiting your comfort zone and forging new connections.
Go digital
If you decide that in-person events are not for you, joining digital communities could be a more accessible avenue for networking. Online platforms provide a space where you can directly connect with like-minded individuals and engage in meaningful discussions without the pressure of face-to-face interactions. When building your online network, utilise platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or industry-specific forums and communities, such as Behance, Dribble, and Github. The advantage of these digital spaces is that there are no geographical barriers to the connections you can make—your network can span 5 miles or 500 miles.
Initiate conversations online by sending personalised messages to individuals that you would like to connect with. Start by expressing your genuine interest in their work or inviting them to work on a collaboration project with you. It is important to keep all your social profiles up to date so connections can instantly see who you are and what you're all about.
Schedule one-on-ones
Attending large industry events or social gatherings is not the only way to network. A simple one-to-one meeting can be just as beneficial, especially if that is an environment that will allow you to present as your best self.
Invite your prospective connections to a place you feel at ease, like your favourite coffee shop, so it is easier for you to break the ice. These intimate settings provide a more comfortable and focused environment, allowing you to discuss professional things matters whilst keeping things more personal and candid.
When inviting someone to a one-on-one meeting, always personalise the invitation by expressing genuine interest in their work or insights. Also, be sure to highlight your biggest selling points and outline the value of the meeting for them. Keep the tone friendly, professional, and respectful of their time.
The takeaway
Networking is not reserved for extroverts. Introverts can make great networks, it just times preparation and practice. Remember: networking is not about being the loudest in the room, it is about being approachable, attentive and your honest self. Happy networking!
