Being introverted isn't a bad thing, but it also doesn't mean that you have to stay huddled away in your apartment while life passes you by. There are ways to get out there in a more uncomfortable way - on your time. Networking is crucial in college and beyond if you want to score life-changing opportunities and land your dream career, but it can be nerve-wracking for anyone, even extroverts.
Here are some tips for being successful at networking without racking up the anxiety.
1. Find a buddy.
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Whether it's at a club meeting, conference, or a job fair, strike up a conversation with one person who may also seem shy or timid. It may be awkward at first, but since you're at the same event, you're sure to have some things in common. Once you start conversing, it only gets easier from there. Eventually, you'll loosen up and be ready to start more conversations with others.
2. Always have a smile on your face.
If you're not ready to start the conversation, at least make sure to always have a smile on your face. Smiling makes people more approachable and will increase the chances of someone coming up to you to chat. It's always a lot easier when someone else initiates the conversation, so make sure to let them know they're welcome to approach. If the times comes, make sure to keep eye contact (as uncomfortable as it is) so that they don't mistake your shyness for rudeness.
3. Don't overthink it.
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You don't need to be the smartest, wittiest person in the room. A lot of anxiety stems from being insecure, so don't worry so much about what others will think of you. Just be yourself and let your personality shine through without getting in your head about it. People can sense when others are being genuine, and if you are true to yourself, people are sure to want to keep chatting with you. If they don't, they aren't the ones you want to be connecting with anyway.
4. Be prepared.
There's no way to rehearse networking, and sometimes the opportunities come when you least expect them. But it's important to always be prepared and ask for a business card or give yours out if you think a person is a good connect. If they don't have a business card, ask for an email and say you would like to connect with them in the future. As for cell phone numbers, unless the person is a friend of a friend or offers it, I wouldn't ask for it right away.
Remember that it's totally OK to be an introvert. There are so many other introverts out there trying to meet people as well, so don't be discouraged. However, it is important to go out of your comfort zone every now and then. It will be uncomfortable in the moment, but you will thank yourself later. Trust me.
