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Being part of a networking event can be a very beneficial activity. Lots of contacts can be made. What if you are shy and not very outgoing, will attending these events will be useful to you? And how to make the situation easier if you are "painfully shy" and feel out of place.
Networking events were not created for the sole benefit of extroverts. Just like in society there is a mix of personalities and no two people are the same. So if you are concerned that you will be the only person there not mingling with everyone there there is no need to be concerned. There are plenty of people who are more off to the side just hanging out enjoying the location and checking out the booths that some people may have set up. It actually works out better for you if you do not try to meet and talk to every person there. You really only need to have a chat with a few people. So relax on that aspect.
Often at events I will see at least a few people I recognize and I will chat with them. The conversations never need to be major or filled with amazing news. Here is a great topic to get things started when you are meeting someone new or someone you have net seen for a length of time, "them". Ask the person how things are going for them.
Asking others about how they are doing is one of the best things to do. By asking about them you are setting it up so that they will do the majority of the talking. This is fantastic if your shy or afraid you will run out of things to say. Here is a list of ideas:
What do you do for work?
How do clients or customers find you?
What does a perfect client look like?
How long have you been doing that type of work?
What is the worst project you ever had?
Is there a lot of competition in your line of work?
Asking these and similar open ended questions takes the pressure off you to speak. It shows that you are interested in them and what they have to offer. Often at meetings there will always be one or two people that really sticks out as being all about themselves with little interest in others. You will never be confused as being self centered when you ask questions about the other person.
About this Author
Jim Troth is a full time home inspector in central Ohio and Education Coordinator for InterNachi Ohio. He has managed to grow his home inspection business despite the slowing of the real estate market in his area. Jim also provides marketing help to other home inspectors and other small business owners. Go to http://www.homeinspectionmarketing.com for more information. jim@homeinspectionmarketing.com
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