You walk into a room full of people, your stomach starts to churn and you keep asking yourself what you were thinking. There are too many people here, I'm shy, I can't possibly accomplish anything by being here, I'll get lost in the crowd
ORYou walk into a room, its a good size, good amount of people, but it seems like everyone is well acquainted. Everyone seems to know eachother too well, and you start to feel like you'll stand out like a sore thumb, a loner in this intimate setting. Oh boy!
*If you can relate to either of these scenarios, both or some experience similar or inbetween, you are not alone. New to the idea of networking and wondering if it ever get easy? Here are a few tips I have learnt along the way:
- Come prepared, have a couple of thing that you can discuss with people in case you freeze and suddenly you feel like your brain went on a break or something.
- Always remember that when you meet people, its just as important to listen as you feel it is to let them know about you/ your business.
- Be engaged in the conversation. Ask open ended questions and when answering leave room for interjections. Don't just ramble on and on.
- RESPECT
- Smile- its contagious, they might not smile back (most people do) but it helps the conversation.
- Most of all, have fun and be yourself, but ensure professionalism all the same
* If you have any tips you would like to add to this list, please email us at info@thesocialitesmanual.ca
Stay Fabulous,
The Socialites Manual
