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How to Love Networking When You “Hate” It

If you’re a chamber of commerce professional, hating to network places you at a disadvantage. Networking and making connections are very much a part of your job. So to be successful, you really need to be a successful networker.

But how do you do that if you’re an introvert, shy, or someone who doesn’t consider themselves a “people” person?

Become a better networker with these tips

Here are a few quick tips.

 

Become a Better Networker

See Yourself as Giving Something to Those You Connect With

A lot of people who hate networking hate it because it feels fake. If you rethink your approach as sharing your gifts, skills, and knowledge with others — and getting the same from them — you may appreciate the efforts more. Seeing networking as a possibility for learning and exchange makes it less of a chore.

Give Yourself Networking Goals

Instead of just walking around mingling, give yourself a few simple goals for the evening. Then you’ll have a mission and a feeling of tangible success when you achieve it. Keep the number of goals for yourself small so that it leaves time for enjoying serendipitous conversations and meetings as well.

Look for Ways to Connect Others

With the goal of connecting others, networking becomes less of a requirement and more of a puzzle to solve. Who should meet whom, what introductions will be most beneficial?

Two women connecting at a networking event.

Ditch the Negative Networking Talk

Stop using words like “schmoozing” and other negative terms for networking. Using words that play up the fake and phony ideas will make you dislike the process more. Instead look back to idea number one and use some positive self talk that you are learning and helping people meet their goals.

Think of Commonalities

You want your member businesses, and in turn your community, to thrive. Business owners want the same. Thank about this commonality when you’re talking with them. It will make you feel good, which will be evident in your interactions with everyone.

Becoming a better networker doesn’t have to be a taxing chore if you keep in mind the benefit to you and your members.

 

By: Christina R. Green

 

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Frank Kenny is a successful entrepreneur, chamber member, chamber board member, chamber board of directors chair, and chamber President/CEO. He now coaches chamber professionals, consults with chambers, trains staff and members, and speaks professionally. He helps Chambers and Chamber Professionals reach their goals. See full bio.

Christina R. Green teaches chambers, associations and small businesses how to connect through content. Her articles have appeared in the Midwest Society of Association Executives’ Magazine, NTEN.org, AssociationTech, and Socialfish. She is a regular guest blogger on this site and Event Managers Blog. Christina is just your average bookish writer on a quest to bring great storytelling to organizations everywhere.Visit her site or connect with her on Twitter @christinagsmith.
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