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When you’re introverted, navigating a world that’s seemingly built for extroverts can seem intimidating. It’s one thing to prefer spending time alone to socializing in large groups, but that preference can feel like a disadvantage in the workplace. Extroverts with natural charisma seem to make meaningful connections everywhere they go, and they’re able to promote their companies with ease. 

Although it might be frustrating to run out of social energy faster than your colleagues, there’s nothing wrong with being an introverted entrepreneur. Some of the smartest and most successful businesspeople are introverts. Introverts are excellent listeners, and many are visionaries with solitary hobbies. They are also deep thinkers who brainstorm creative solutions to problems. 

Susan Cain, the author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, says, “Sometimes it helps to be a pretend-extrovert. There’s always time to be quiet later. But in the long run, staying true to your temperament is the key to finding work you love and work that matters.” 

Networking with other entrepreneurs and industry professionals might be taxing, but if you can handle it in small doses, you can set aside time to recharge in a quiet space as a reward. While you’re pretending to be an extrovert, don’t lose sight of those introverted qualities that make you a great entrepreneur. You created a business because you’re passionate about what you do. If you believe in your product or service, your audience will, too.

Read on for more tips and tricks from people who understand how to make those meaningful social connections in the business world.

1. Network in Small Groups

If you’re introverted, you may be intimidated by large round-table conferences and national networking events. While it can be helpful to push your social boundaries, make sure to know your limits. Forcing yourself into an uncomfortable social situation could impact your ability to be your best self. 

Justin Soleimani, Co-Founder of Tumble says, “Networking isn’t always about reaching the biggest audience. Getting to know a small group of people or even making just one meaningful connection can do just as much for the reputation of your company, if not more. Especially at a large networking event, you’ll never be able to speak to everyone, so it’s almost more worthwhile to invest time in getting to know a few key people.”

2. Network Online

If you’re an entrepreneur, you have likely tried your hand at online networking. LinkedIn is a great networking tool and can help you keep track of connections and leads. Additionally, if you find that you’re more confident and clear-headed when writing as opposed to speaking, you can get to know people through LinkedIn’s chat function. When you do meet your connections in person, you will have already broken the ice for an easy conversation.

“We live in the digital age,” says Sara Alshamsi, Founder and CEO of Big Heart Toys, “and if you’re just starting to build your network, reaching out to people online is a great place to start. Apps like LinkedIn allow you to research everyone’s work history so you can easily find a starting point for a conversation.”

3. Network With Structure

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Large seminars and networking events can be intimidating for introverts because they require attendees to be very forward and assertive. With so many successful people in the same room, you might get a case of imposter syndrome. It may be more beneficial for you to seek out events where everyone has an equal chance to introduce themselves. Speed networking is one such type of networking where each entrepreneur is matched with connections. 

“Lots of people are looking to expand their network and make new connections,” says Saad Alam, CEO and Co-Founder of Hone Health. “Conferences with networking sessions and industry-specific seminars can help you find exactly what you’re looking for — without the unnecessary small talk.”

You don’t always have to network through a large event, either. Meeting a potential client over coffee or lunch can be less intimidating, too.

4. Practice Your Pitch

Whether you’re attending a networking event, meeting someone for coffee, or connecting on LinkedIn, you will probably be asked a series of questions about yourself and your company. It may help you as an introvert to look up commonly asked questions and to prepare an elevator pitch in advance. This is a 30 to 60-second introduction that tells another individual who you are as a professional. You will probably need two separate pitches: one for yourself and one for your company.

“If networking makes you anxious, it probably has to do with those first few seconds during which you have to shake hands and introduce yourself to a stranger. If you have an elevator pitch prepared ahead of time, you’ll know exactly what to say. You can even practice it in a mirror until you perfect your confident stance and smile,” says Brianna Bitton, Co-Founder of O Positiv.

5. Be an Expert in What You Know

If someone asked you to talk about a favorite book, movie, or pet, you would probably have an excess of interesting things to say. When networking, make space to talk about areas in your industry that you truly understand. Take time to educate people on what you know and be open to the knowledge of others as well. Chances are you’ll be more open and confident when talking about topics that are of interest to you. You don’t want to dominate the conversation, but offering relevant and useful information can’t hurt. 

Maegan Griffin, Founder, CEO and nurse practitioner at Skin Pharm says, “As the entrepreneur of your company, you know what you’re selling better than anyone else. When someone asks for your story or expresses interest in your product, be as convincing as you can. You want people to walk away with the impression that you know your stuff — and care about what you do.”

6. Be a Good Listener

In his book The Success Formula, author Bob Burg says, “The successful networkers I know, the ones receiving tons of referrals and feeling truly happy about themselves, continually put the other person’s needs ahead of their own.” 

At a networking event, everyone will be confidently giving their elevator pitch. However, as an introvert, you will be able to listen to your clients’ and colleagues’ needs and wants with a more attentive ear. 

Networking relies on good social skills, and if you listen carefully, you will be able to learn about your colleagues as people. If they offer up information about their family, occupation, or recreational activities, take a genuine interest and deliver information about yourself and your company in a relatable way. 

7. Be Memorable

As an introvert, making yourself memorable when you’re surrounded by extroverts can feel like whispering when everyone else is shouting. Preparing an elevator pitch can help you gather the most important and memorable information about yourself. Storytelling is also a great way to make yourself memorable. A potential connection might not remember your name, but they will be less likely to forget you if you tell a funny and relatable story. 

Derek Flanzraich, Founder and CEO of Ness Well, a company that offers a wellness card perfect for wellness-loving consumers, says, “When networking, the goal isn’t necessarily to impress people or make a sale. Instead, your connections should come away with a good impression of you as a person. They should understand the goal of your business, yes, but they should also want to get to know you. When we get caught up talking business, it can be easy to lose sight of the fact that networking is about people.”

8. Network Alongside a Partner or Colleague

Many quiet people tend to surround themselves with loud friends so they feel balanced in social situations. If you’re an introvert with an extroverted business partner or colleague, there’s no harm in attending a networking event together. Let your extroverted friend initiate conversations and lead small talk. You can still introduce yourself, be friendly, and offer memorable input without the added stress of initiating those interactions. 

“Whether you’re introverted or extroverted, it’s always more fun to attend a networking event with someone that you know,” says Susan Kim Shaffer, President and Co-Founder of Pneuma Nitric Oxide. “You can take turns introducing each other to give yourselves a break from the usual networking format. Other attendees will also be more likely to remember a powerhouse business duo.” 

9. Find Other Introverts

If worse comes to worst and you’re struggling to keep up with the extroverted energy of a networking event, seek out attendees who remind you of yourself. If you see one or two people standing by themselves or eating alone, pull up a chair and join them. Remember that you don’t have to talk to the most captivating or important person in the room to make a meaningful connection.

“Quiet people sometimes make the best conversation partners,” says Brian Lee, Co-Founder and CEO of Arena Club. “They’re often thoughtful and intelligent. Just as you might be overlooked because you’re quiet, other people could receive the same treatment. Stand out by being the one to reach out to them first.”

10.Take Breaks

If the buzz of a networking event is too intense for you, taking a step back could be the best way to retain your mental clarity. Excusing yourself for a glass of water or stepping out for a breath of fresh air will give you a minute to yourself. If you find that the event isn’t what you hoped or you’re too overwhelmed, you can always leave early. 

Dan McCormick, Founder and CEO of Create says, “There are networking events that last for days at a time, and that can be exhausting for anyone. Recharge your energy by spending some time alone in a quiet space. Give yourself time to process everything you’ve learned and everyone you’ve met.”

An Introvert’s Path to Success

Contrary to popular sentiment, you’re not required to be an extrovert in order to network successfully. 

Colby Schmidt, Founder of Coursology says, “While it’s important to write an elevator pitch, successfully building your network means expanding beyond just you and your company. It’s about connecting people and working to understand their individual needs and goals.” 

Play into your strengths when conversing with people and network in an environment that is comfortable for you. Ultimately, people will respect your expertise and your ability to listen thoughtfully — not how loud you are.