the interesting introvert: networking for people who hate networking
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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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