The Interesting Introvert

Networking for People Who Hate Networking

Matthew D. Musgrave, M.Ed.Residence Hall Director

Kent State UniversityINFP

@MDMusgrave#OHSAtweets

What is an Introvert?

Obviously, opposite of an extrovert/extravert Inwardly-reflective Drained by large social gatherings Energized by alone time Fewer close friends “Think to talk” Famous Introverts: Einstein, Da Vinci, QE2,

Carson, Buffet, Roberts, MLK, Jordan How do you define your introversion?

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What is networking?

The art of building, maintaining connections for shared positive outcomes

Allows you to establish relationships; build trust People hire people they know and trust

Opportunities are all around! School, conference socials, meals, and parties Standing in line Sitting on a bus, subway, or airplane Social media (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn); e-mail

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How Networking is Intimidating

What makes you nervous about networking? “Forced” conversations

Making the initial connection Seems disingenuous (only there to “put your

name out there”) Having to talk with dozens of people in order

to have made an impact Physical/Mental exhaustion

Dealing with stress Mental “over-processing”

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Start Small

“Drill deep” – establish connections early on through email; social networking Focus on schools that you feel would be “best fit” Send prospective employers clarifying questions to

assess that fit Narrows your focus Prepares you for your interview

Social networks are where employer shows “true colors”

Twitter hashtag conversations (#SAchat; #SAgrad)

Join regional, national organizations Attend and volunteer at conferences

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Large Group Networking

Unavoidable part of networking Relax! You are not on display (even though it

may feel that way) Don’t worry about the interview – focus on

relationship building Look and feel your best – confidence is key! Set realistically achievable goals

Reward yourself for achieving these goals Bring a friend, but don’t use him/her as a

crutch

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Stay Small

Thrive in a one-on-one environment Schedule 1:1 lunches with prospective

employers, connections Connect with other introverts – they will be

happy to not have to extend themselves Arrive early

Make connections before groups form, solidify Connect with others in a quiet environment

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Be a “Host,” Not a “Guest”

“Guests” wait to be told what to do; where to go

“Hosts” focus on, attend to the needs of others Reduces shyness; feels more genuine; not an

imposition You can assess what an employer’s needs are;

address how you can meet them Compliments help to break the ice Use “inviting” body language – SMILE!

Small Talk

If you’re prepared, you won’t have awkward gaps of silence Ask questions that interest you Practice answering those questions as well, be

detailed, but not overly so Examples

What have you enjoyed most about this conference? What did you enjoy about it?

What brought you to this conference/session?

LISTEN – don’t get distracted watching for other chances to network

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Follow the ROAD

Relationships – Who is important to them (friends, family, co-workers)?

Occupation – What do they do in their role? Activities – What do they do for fun (outside

of their position)? Drive – What motivates them? What do they

most like about their work? You don’t have to be the life of the party, just

be yourself!

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Take Breaks!

Easily the most important advice – AVOID BURNOUT

After 2-3 conversations, take 5-15 minutes to simply sit and catch your breath It can be more/less, depending on how you feel Write thank you notes Jot key info on business cards – useful for

follow-up Text a friend for encouragement Check email, voicemail, Facebook, Twitter, etc.

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Ending the Conversation

It’s okay to move on! Networking is natural in our field Social events at placement – people expect you to do this

Don’t use the bathroom excuse unless that’s what you need to do

Be honest Thank them (by name) for the conversation, shake

their hand and get a card “I promised myself I’d circulate the room, but it’s been

great talking with you. Do you have a card?” “I’m sure you want to connect with other people tonight,

so I’ll let you go. Do you have a card?”

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After the Event

Don’t beat yourself up over missteps Follow-up with the people you met within 1-3

days Let your email fill in the gaps that you missed Create the opportunity for further connections

Reward yourself for your accomplishments Take a deep breath and relax – you

overcame a huge hurdle

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