4 answers
Genevieve
Student
Cedar Rapids
78
Questions
Asked
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How do you overcome your natural shyness to effectively network?
I'm really shy, so the idea of networking makes me really uncomfortable. My shyness is keeping me back from making impactful connections. How do I overcome it?
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4 answers
James McKay
Incident, Escalation Management
4
Answers
Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
Updated
James’s Answer
Begin with baby steps - try introducing yourself to a friend or a family member. Let them role-play as a different person and rehearse this a couple of times.
If you're lucky enough to have a supportive person around you, maybe a buddy who shares your interests, take turns introducing each other.
Before you start, jot down a few key points you'd like to mention: your name, your interests, and why they should remember you.
If you're lucky enough to have a supportive person around you, maybe a buddy who shares your interests, take turns introducing each other.
Before you start, jot down a few key points you'd like to mention: your name, your interests, and why they should remember you.
Thank you, James!
Genevieve
Yes I agree, baby steps. I didn’t think of role playing, that’s another grear idea if you’re comfortable to get comfortable.
Anthony Royster
Anthony Royster
Creative Director, Senior Designer
2
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Anthony’s Answer
What helps is joining clubs, organizations or meetups that interest you. Meeting can be tough, however meeting new people in environments you relate to makes it easier.
Find subjects you’re interested in.
Sign up or attend what works for you.
Make a plan to say hello to at least 2-3 people you think look interesting
Anthony recommends the following next steps:
Wow, great advice! I think having a goal of saying hi to at least 2-3 people would make it easier to approach people. Thank you!
Genevieve
Karen Kitchel
Community Volunteer
335
Answers
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Karen’s Answer
Great you are asking for ideas to help you succeed. Networking can be done using your computer as well as in person. Try connecting with people you know with an email and ask if they might connect you with someone who is currently working in an area that interests you. After an email or two you might try meeting in person over coffee. Prepare a list of questions so you don't have to be concerned about what to say.
You might also try volunteering for positions where the focus is on what you're doing, not what you're saying such as serving meals. Might be easier to have a casual conversation while you're doing something together with others.
With every good wish.
You might also try volunteering for positions where the focus is on what you're doing, not what you're saying such as serving meals. Might be easier to have a casual conversation while you're doing something together with others.
With every good wish.
Great advice, thank you Karen!
Genevieve
Nice! Volunteering is another great way to network and overcome the anxiety of shyness.
Anthony Royster
Chloe Lee
Design Management
5
Answers
Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
Updated
Chloe’s Answer
That's an excellent question! Remember, the individual or group you're conversing with might be experiencing the same level of shyness as you. So, how can you help them feel more at ease? A proven strategy is to express genuine interest and curiosity about them. Engage them with questions and seek their advice. You'll notice that they'll start to open up and show the same level of interest in you. This approach transforms the conversation into a more natural exchange, rather than a forced networking event. It's all about mutual curiosity and connection!