Welcome to the third edition of our Networking Basics series!
In this issue, we’ll delve into the world of networking and explore strategies to help you overcome social anxiety, craft a memorable introduction, and make meaningful connections.
So, whether you’re an introvert, an extrovert, or somewhere in between, keep reading to discover valuable tips and techniques that will boost your networking confidence.
Networking with Confidence: Overcoming Social Anxiety
Networking events can be intimidating, especially if you’re someone who experiences social anxiety.
The mere thought of striking up conversations with strangers might make your palms sweat and your heart race.
You’re not alone. Don’t worry there are effective ways to conquer these common fears:
Shift your mindset
Instead of viewing networking as a daunting task, reframe it as an opportunity to meet interesting people and learn from their experiences.
Remember, everyone at these events is there to connect, so embrace the chance to expand your professional circle.
Be prepared
Boost your confidence by prioritising preparation. Research the event, its attendees, and potential conversation topics.
Having some talking points in mind will ease anxiety and make you feel more comfortable engaging with others.
Take baby steps
If you’re new to networking or feeling particularly anxious, begin by attending smaller, more casual gatherings. These low-pressure environments can help you practice your social skills and build confidence gradually.
Step away when you need to
If you’re new to networking or feeling particularly anxious, begin by attending smaller, more casual gatherings.
These low-pressure environments can help you practice your social skills and build confidence gradually.
So, you’re at the event, and you’ve overcome (okay, maybe that’s a reach – you’re successfully managing) your anxiety.
What’s next?
When it comes to networking, making a memorable first impression is crucial.
In a world where attention spans are short and opportunities arise in unexpected moments, having a concise and impactful introduction can make all the difference.
Elevator Pitches and Personal Branding: Crafting a Memorable Introduction
Imagine yourself at a busy event. You’re there because you know that event will provide you with the opportunity to meet your dream investor or employer.
You’re in luck.
You spot them standing alone in a quiet corner.
You tell yourself it’s now or never.
You have a brief moment to capture their attention and leave a lasting impression. This is where the power of an elevator pitch comes into play.
Top Tips
Know your audience
Tailor your elevator pitch to the specific person or group you’re addressing. Highlight the aspects of your background, skills, or achievements that are most relevant and interesting to them.
Keep it concise
Craft a compelling pitch (i.e., introduction) that lasts no longer than 30-60 seconds. Be clear, fand ocused, and avoid using jargon or technical terms that might confuse your listener.
Tell a story
Weave a narrative into your introduction to make it memorable. Share an anecdote or personal experience that showcases your passion/vision and your ability to deliver results.
This will leave a lasting impression on your audience.
Practice, practice, practice
Rehearse your elevator pitch until it flows naturally. Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend and ask for feedback to refine your delivery.
You can use the sentence construction guide below to help you create your perfect pitch:
- I’m …
- I specialise in …
- I help …
- I would like …
Here’s an example of an elevator pitch:
“Hi there!
I’m Kiki, an investment banker with a track record of driving strategic financial growth for my clients.
I specialise in mergers and acquisitions, leveraging my expertise to identify lucrative investment opportunities and deliver exceptional returns.
With a keen eye for market trends and a commitment to delivering value, I thrive in complex financial landscapes.
I’d love to chat more about how I can contribute to your investment portfolio.”
Remember, your elevator pitch is just the beginning.
Engage in a conversation, ask questions, and actively listen to the other person’s needs and interests.
Building a genuine connection is far more valuable than simply delivering a memorised speech
I hope these networking strategies empower you to step out of your comfort zone and make meaningful connections.
By overcoming social anxiety and perfecting your elevator pitch, you’ll be in the best position to seek and take opportunities as they arise.
Keep Thriving!
