Listen up introverts! You are not going to like what I'm about to say, but you need to get out and network once and a while.
As an introvert myself, I have found networking challenging in the past. Despite how scary it may seem, I have gotten jobs and met clients at networking events and I know that if I can do it, so can you.
Though my own experience, these tips have helped me to networked like a pro, without the hassle:
When you hate networking, you want to get in and out as quickly as possible. But, there is pressure to introduce your self to EVERYONE in the room. Well, you don't have to. Do you really need to talk to Jim the financial advisor when you have one already? No. Focus on creating a couple, MEANINGFUL connections. This works much better because:
So, instead of trying to get around to everyone in the room, and end up bailing because it's just too overwhelming, focus on meeting one or two new people each time you network. There, that sounds more manageable doesn't it?
This tip pairs with the quality vs quantity tip nicely. In most cities, there are several local networking groups that are focused on certain fields, young professionals, and even events that focus on hobbies.
Do a bit of research and find one that will benefit you and your end game. By narrowing your search, it will make the conversation less awkward and you can focus on the important business talk.
Check out Facebook groups and Meetup to find groups of like-minded people in your area.
Everything is better with a friend, especially networking! I always make a rule to only go to a networking event with someone I know. Having someone there will give you moral support and a push to go. There are three main friends that can help you out in networking events:
Make sure your in-person connection wasn't the last they'll hear of you. Follow up using social media platforms like LinkedIn to follow through with potential professional connections, career opportunities, or clients.
Hopefully, these networking tips will help you take your next event by storm!
Earlier this year Shopify launched the Shopify App Challenge. The brief, create an app that helps solve a challenge amplified by COVID-19, but that would also have staying power beyond the pandemic crisis. We knew, without a doubt, that we wanted to be a part of this challenge. So, our small team set to work building our second public Shopify application, Recipes.