ICK-Free Networking for Introverts In Business

Can introverts succeed in network marketing?

I get asked this question A LOT and I understand why. From the outside looking in, this industry has the appearance of an extroverts heaven.

We’ve all seen the stage photos right? Top earners strutting across a stage in front of a HUGE audience with BIG smiles and high fives flying through the air. I’m literally sweating just thinking about it!

I remember thinking, I don’t know if I can do this. I’m not a “stage type” gal. I’m more of a cozy convo by the fireplace gal. Where are my blankets?

Well, believe it or not, since then, I’ve learned that there are TONS of top earning introverts and ambiverts in the network marketing space.

I’m one of them.

We’re just not as noticeable (and we’re okay with that)!

Introverts and ambiverts simply recharge differently than extroverts. It has nothing to do with liking or disliking people, it’s simply a matter of recharging. Introverts have different strengths than extroverts so it’s less about being one or the other and more about knowing how to maximize your personal gifts, talents and strengths.

So yes...you can be a successful network marketer as an introvert or an extrovert.

Here are my top tips for my fellow introverts to help you THRIVE when it comes to making new friends:

First, GET SOCIAL (not that kind of social 😉).

Connect with people on social media. It’s an introverts playground! Connecting is controlled and way less scary! And guess what, a ton of other introverts are doing the same thing and want to connect. Easy peasy! Get used to taking the first step and you will be surprised how many awesome connections you make from the comfort of your own home.

Start by following like-minded people or people you admire. Once you get a good feel for who they are and what they are all about, start interacting with them by leaving comments on their posts and even private messages.

Make sure to clean up your profile prior to reaching out. This will ensure you are able to put your best foot forward! Trust me, if your profile picture is a cat or weird photo, the likelihood of awesome interaction is slim to none so clean it up before interacting!

Second, stick to ONE-ON-ONE networking opportunities.
Introverts are awesome listeners, so we create meaningful one on one relationships with little effort. This approach allows you to play to your strengths. Keep an eye out for opportunities that allow you to interact with individuals in a smaller setting. This way you feel more comfortable with voicing your opinion and letting your voice be heard.

If you can’t find small networking opportunities, when you do attend larger events, try to focus on a few key people instead of trying to spread the word about your business to a room full of people. Have in-depth conversations with one or two business owners. This will have a much greater impact than a bunch of meaningless conversations.

Third, ASK or an INTRODUCTION.
When attending events, ask for introductions ahead of time. When you allow others to introduce you, it takes away the pressure to perform and a third party brings instant credibility.

Fourth, REMEMBER who and WHOSE you are.
Your self worth isn’t based on any label. So don’t get hung up on it. Before a networking event, remember why you’re going. Be clear on your goals. You aren’t there to meet everybody. You are there to meet a handful of people that you can have a meaningful connection with. And SMILE. Smiles are hard to resist even for the stuffiest of crowds.

Fifth, SWITCH your FOCUS.
I know it’s human nature to think about ourselves more than anything else but you’re not like everybody else. Get clear that your FOCUS is on others during the event and find joy in seeking meaningful connections. If you’re envisioning bad appetizers, awkward “what do you do?” conversations, and thoughts of I’d rather be at home, remember you can always slip away to the restroom to regroup. I do it all the time.

Last (but not least), DITCH the what is in it for me approach.
Instead of thinking about who you need to meet, think about the types of connections that will help you be a good referral source to the people you meet. What do you have to offer that can help them build their business. I’ve found the more that I serve people the more likely they are to help me. And guess what, it feels good to help others. So roll up your sleeves and find people that you can help by sharing your awesome gifts and talents.

If you want more, check out this video.

Me, mid afternoon in Hawaii after too much networking during an earned trip. Introverting!

Each week I go live on my Facebook Page to dig deeper, so make sure we’re connected.

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Question of the week: Are you an introvert, ambivert or extrovert?