6 Networking Lessons From An Introvert Guy Who Hates To Socialize (Number 5 Will Blow Your Mind!)
Hello My Friend and Reader,
One time, my boss invited me to attend the networking event organized by AmCham. I was hesitant because it was not my cup of tea.
For most people who know me, they described me as loud and noisy. But the truth is I am a self-proclaimed introvert.
I feel awkward being in a group of people that I don't know. And if there is one place I don't want to be, it is being in a networking event. But I don't know why, maybe out of boredom or pressure, I agree to attend.
It was my first time attending such an event. So I am excited to share with you the experiences and lessons I learned that I found helpful and valuable.
Let's get started.
1. Don't Do All The Talking
I was sitting in the booth when an interested attendee approach. He starts asking questions about Planswift, the estimating software the company is offering. I ask him if it is okay with him to show how the software works. He said yes and I was so excited to show him what makes Planswift a good buy. Telling him what makes it different from other software. He was listening.
After the conversation, the man leaves, giving me his calling card. I thought it was a good one but I started to realize that I was talking all the time.
I should have asked him first what their current problems or challenges are. From that, I can show him how Planswift can be a great help on their company.
My Takeaway: Listen First to Your Customers. Discover their pain points. Only then you will know if your product or service will fit their needs.
2. Learn the Power of Small Talk
Besides our company, there is a Booth near us. They are China Airlines. I was happy because I thought I was the only one in the booth area. I plan to talk to the ladies and to make new friends outside my circle.
Instead, I keep on staring and smiling at them. I don't know how to approach them. The 4 Hour program ends, with me not even getting their names. I could have talked to them and socialize.
I could ask them if they have been attending AmCham Networking Events. Maybe that could start a conversation, and of course future communications. (Business of course, haha)
My Takeaway: Break out of the shell. In a networking event, you'll never know what you can get and people you will meet until you talk.
3. Business Card is the First Contact
A representative from AmCham talk to me and introduced himself. He gave me his business card. I told him that I don't have a business card so I gave him my manager's BC.
What he did next surprised me.
He asked for my name. Write it down on the business card I gave him. Whether it is an act of courtesy or not, it sure makes me feel important.
My Takeaway: Have an effort to at least find a way to remember the name of the person you first met. It makes someone feel special when you remember their names.
4. Different people, different motives
We were early to set up our booth. So I was able to observe people who come and go at the event. I notice that there are three types of people who are going on a networking event
First, People who are looking for business opportunities.
Second, people who want to hang out with friends and acquaintances.
Third, people who just want to brag about their achievements. (The last one makes me cringe.)
My Takeaway: Know your purpose why you will attend networking events.
5. Alcohol Is The Key
I thought networking event is a formal event. People are all around and talk to each other. And Alcohol/beers/wines are all over.
At the end of the event, I have learned that networking event is more of a drinking session. (Tell me if I am wrong.)
One more thing, I realize alcohol is the key to building partnerships. The bad thing is I don't drink!
My Takeaway: It's more than drinking, having a bottle or a glass in your hand.
It tells me that whatever position you have in the company, outside the company we are all still human.
My past manager in my past job told me that when someone invites you in gathering, you don't have to drink. You just have to be with them. For them.
6. They don't care about your English.
Besides the fact that I don't know how to approach people, I was hesitant because I am not confident in my English. Yes, I am a member of Toastmasters Club but it's a different world out there.
One time, I had a conversation with my manager. I asked him if there was a time he got intimidated speaking in English in front of expats. He said that's something that amazed him. They don't care about your grammar.
After hearing those words I got a boost in my confidence and throw away the Merriam Websters I had!
My Takeaway: The message is more important than grammar. Your intention matters most.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, networking events ultimate purpose is to build and renew the relationship.
Thousands of years ago, humans build tribes to survive against predators more powerful than them. It is no different from today. If you want success in life and business, you have to connect with like-minded people.
There is an African Proverb that says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” And networking events live by this principle.
How about you? What lessons do you get from attending networking events? It is amazing? It is embarrassing? Share your lessons and experience at the comment section below. Love to hear from you.
Sincerely,
Brian
