If you’re an introvert, chances are you are trying to network much like an extravert would… and that is causing stress and mediocre results. Here’s what to do about it.
I remember the pressure to begin networking starting while I was in college. There were various mixers with successful alumni and the idea was that you would walk around, have a beer, and get some sage advice.
I found that I always dreaded these events. I mean, I wanted to go, but I really had to try and energize myself for the events. I always felt nervous about them… and awkward as I nudged my way into a conversation that was already going on among 4-6 other people.
The fact is that I am an introvert, but I can fake being an extravert really well. If you meet me at a cocktail party, chances are decent that I will fool you into thinking I’m a bit more social than I really am. Here’s the thing, for those of us who are introverts, networking events are draining.
And unfortunately, we are taught that we should pursue networking at these events just like an extravert would. I disagree.
Here is an article I wrote a couple weeks ago for the career coaching blog careers.noomii.com that outlines the 4 mistakes that introverts make and what to do about them. Click on the image or click here to read the article.
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