Introverts, Network!
As CEO and president at Veteran Talent Advisors, a veteran-focused recruitment firm, Scott Shearin’s outgoing and upbeat demeanor is mistaken for extroversion. “In reality, I’m a closet introvert,” he says.
That’s not to say he’s shy, but as an introvert, he finds quiet time more reenergizing than being around people. Extroverts, on the other hand, gain energy from others.
Shearin says that introverts actually can make more meaningful connections and lasting impressions. In addition, they tend to network more efficiently because their social energy is limited.
Networking isn’t just an extrovert’s game, but introverts may need a different game plan to succeed. The plan cannot involve hiding behind LinkedIn and other social media. “Introverts often feel safer and more comfortable communicating in the social media world,” says Lisa Petrilli, CEO of C-Level Strategies and author of the eBook “The Introvert’s Guide to Success in Business and Leadership” (C-Level Strategies, Inc., 2011).
The main purpose of LinkedIn is to form and maintain business relationships, “but it can never take the place of building relationships in person,” Shearin says.
LinkedIn is a starting point. “I network aggressively through social media,” Shearin says, “but my aim is always to find an opportunity to sit with someone face to face, one on one.”
Introverts and extroverts alike should use social media profiles to prepare for any type of networking event, be it a mixer or meeting someone for coffee. Reading about people in advance makes for better conversations and stronger connections. Before a larger networking event, LinkedIn provides an appropriate way for people to reach out to others and tell them they look forward to meeting them, which facilitates real-life introductions.
Those who find larger events daunting and draining should set two or three specific goals beforehand, such as meeting an influential person or learning more about a particular company. Then, they should set a time limit. That way, they can leave before they get overwhelmed as long their goals are met.
Introverts as well as shy networkers should prepare a few opening lines, but don’t launch into a scripted elevator speech.
Ask about the other person. “People tend to enjoy talking about themselves, so give them that opportunity,” Shearin says. “The focal point will move back to you eventually, and when it does, that person is more inclined to pay attention because they’ve developed an affinity toward you since you took an interest in them.”
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