Strategies for People Who Hate Networking

7 Strategies for People Who Hate Networking<br /><br />Meeting someone in person is generally a much faster and effective way to get to know him or her than through online methods.<br /><br />There are some people who are born networkers. Im not one of them.<br /><br />Before you step out of your car or hotel room, take a deep breath and smile. Purposefully turn it on. Bring that smile into the room with you and keep it there.<br /><br />2. Rescue someone.<br /><br />Youre not the only one who doesnt enjoy going to networking events. There is almost always someone standing off to the side or alone. Go over to them and make them feel comfortable. They will appreciate being rescued and you will have someone who wants to talk with you. Then, if you see other people just standing around invite them to join your new group. Youll be looked upon as a connector.<br /><br />3. Dont worry about what youre going to say.<br /><br />Learn about your new friend. You can start the conversation by complimenting a piece of jewelry, mentioning the artwork in the room or asking them why they came.<br /><br />Let them talk. When the time is right the conversation will naturally turn to you and youll be able to share.<br /><br />4. Relax.<br /><br />Remember that this is nothing more than a conversation. Dont try to sell. Dont try to impress, just get to know each other and be yourself. People buy from people they know, like and trust. Establish a relationship. Get to know each other.<br /><br />5. Dont try to meet everyone.<br /><br />Its not a competition. Personally, I prefer to get to know a few people well than to have superficial conversations with everyone.<br /><br />6. Follow up.<br /><br />Its more important for you to get his or her contact information than for you to give your card to everyone you meet. The truth is that very few people follow up after networking events. Tell your new friend how and when youll be in touch after the event so that they expect it.