Samuel Okoruwa
Networking is an essential part of life. To a large extent, our connections with others determine how far we go in our careers, businesses, and life in general. Unfortunately, networking can be daunting for some folks. Due to introversion, shyness, or even social phobia, some individuals are held back from actually going for events that they would love to attend
This article will guide you through a number of ways you can get rid of your fear of networking and start building relationships that will be beneficial to you.
Start Small
If you’re new to the world of networking, it can feel overwhelming at first. Like any other activity, the only way you can truly get used to it is by taking small baby steps. You can start by attending events that involve just a small number of people. Once you’ve gotten accustomed to small gatherings, you can then set more goals for yourself and aim for events with larger crowds. Try to keep track of your progress and celebrate yourself when you notice improvements. This will help motivate you to achieve all your networking goals.
Do It Often
This is one step that can’t be overemphasized. We only get used to an activity when we do it over and over again. In addition to that, we must also do it often to see results. Try to go for events that take place regularly (weekly or monthly) and endeavor to always attend them. The more you go for such events, the better you get accustomed to them.
Go For Events Tailored According To Your Values
Aside from meeting people, you should have other concrete reasons why you want to attend a networking event. Does such event align with your values and goals in life? Will it benefit your career, academics, or business? Can you get meaningful contacts that will be of benefit to you in the future. When you have strong reasons such as this to go for an event, you will be more motivated to always attend the event and participate as well.
Arrive Early
For anyone, it can be quite intimidating getting to an event late. This is because the venue would most likely be crowded at this point and conversations would have already started.
READ ALSO: How to Deal With Fear
Arriving when there is hardly anyone at the venue is a great way to ease into the environment and get comfortable with others
Carry A Friend Along
Having a friend accompany you to the networking event can go a long way in easing your fears and making you less anxious. A friend may even help you break the ice and introduce you to friends of their own.
Find Ways In Which You Can Volunteer
One of the reasons people fear networking is because they are self-conscious and believe people will judge them negatively. Volunteering is a great way to participate and remove the focus off yourself. In the process of volunteering, you may just discover more things you’re good at which can help boost your confidence. Moreover, as humans, we always tend to give our best when we feel like we are needed.
So go out there today and start making meaningful connections with other. Remember the basics: start small and do it often and you will eventually get accustomed to it. Cheers!
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