Business-Building Networking Strategies for Introverts

The Introvert’s Edge: Discover the Strategies and Tactics of Introverted Global Business Leaders

Networking might be enjoyable for extroverts, but what about those of us who aren’t quite as outgoing, and struggle with finding something to say to strangers? What if there were a way to connect with the exact right people, cultivate mutually beneficial relationships, and form partnerships that benefit your business, all by avoiding traditional networking events?

In the last episode, Jay shared his terrifying experience being asked to speak in front of 20,000 people, and how he overcame his fears. In this episode of the Introvert’s Edge podcast, Jay shares his strategy for generating over fifty new and genuine relationships each year.

Welcome to Jay Papasan’s Great Introvert Experiment.

Networking, the Introvert’s Way

Not only is traditional networking uncomfortable for introverts, it can also make us feel a little sleazy to be constantly pushing our products and services on the people we meet there. The whole event can be an introvert’s nightmare. Plus, the way most people do it, they don’t end up even speaking to the people who could actually help their businesses. I could go on and on about the common networking mistakes I see every day – I even wrote an article about it called “Networking Does Work – You’re Just Doing It WRONG!” – but today, Jay shares an intriguing idea, which doesn’t involve traditional networking at all. He calls it “the Great Introvert Experiment.” It’s the simple act of setting strategic meetings, not to sell, but to get to know the right people and see how you can both help each other.

You’re NOT Networking to Make More Sales

Many business owners think that the point of networking is to sell your products or services – but Jay believes this is a mistake. And while, yes, more sales are ultimately the goal, you can’t expect that simply attending a networking event is going to magically get you customers. You have to start first with relationship building, expanding your network to people who can help you, but whom you can help as well. According to Jay’s experience, laying the groundwork and establishing genuine relationships means that when a person in your network learns of someone looking for the product or service you provide, you’re the first one who comes to their mind.

Some Questions I Ask:

• What is “The Great Introvert Experiment”? (0:45)
• When networking, who should I reach out to, and how? (5:47)
• How did you establish your networking rhythm? (9:42)
• In networking meetings, how do you make sure you come across as someone who doesn’t have an agenda? (11:53)
• What do you consider your introvert’s edge? (15:53)

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• The brilliant networking strategy that removes pressure and awkwardness and develops productive relationships (1:43)
• The importance of follow-up, and a creative way to do it (3:59)
• The best way to get started in networking (6:32)
• The magic word that gets people to meet with you (7:41)
• Why you don’t need a podcast or any other platform to start meeting the right people (14:35)
• Why being an introvert gives you a better opportunity to learn from others (16:35)

Resources Mentioned in the Show:

• Part One of this episode
• The One Thing

Thanks for taking the time to listen!

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