Networking. No matter the size of your business or the industry you work in, networking is essential. It’s how to make connections and build relationships with those in the wider business world.

The catch? It can be intimidating and maybe even awkward. For the introverted business owner, networking might feel like your worst nightmare.

I know first-hand exactly how this feels. Networking used to terrify me, it felt so daunting. My anxiety used to get so bad that I would talk myself out of going. I worried that I wouldn’t know what to say, or that I’d be put on the spot (public speaking…forget about it!!)

More recently, I’ve been attending online networking events and I’ve realised that I absolutely love it. It’s nerve-wracking but exhilarating at the same time. I’ve been lucky enough to meet incredible like-minded business women and the power of connection blew my mind. I finally get the hype.
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Why networking matters for small businesses

We know by now that we can’t do it alone – in life and in business. As someone deep in the world of supporting time-limited small business owners as an Executive Assistant, I know firsthand the incredible impact that teamwork has.

Networking allows you to expand your community and create connections with people in business. These connections could maybe help you in the future or become your business friends that you can lean on for ideas or support. Together you can share knowledge and learn from each other. This, as you can imagine, is invaluable.

Someone once told me “it’s not who you know at these events, it’s who they know”. That has stuck with me and it is so true. You could meet someone at a networking event who has a friend that is desperate for some support within their business…and here you are, perfect connection!!

So, if you are feeling the nerves of networking and you are stalling like I used to, then I think these helpful networking tips will help calm your mind a little. 

‌Top tips for networking

What I’ve learned is that networking doesn’t have to be intimidating or overwhelming. Even if it isn’t something that comes naturally to you, it can be a skill that is learned. Yes, it does feel overwhelming walking into a room full of strangers or seeing so many faces on a zoom call but everyone is there for the same reason; to connect. The more you go, you may end up seeing some familiar faces, which always calms my nerves. 

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• Find the right networking event for you:

Remember, you don’t need to network with absolutely everyone – connecting with the right people is the core of a strong network. Search for events that feel most like you. Maybe this is networking over a coffee, or even during a walk. There are all sorts of networking events running that go beyond the formal pitching networking. 

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• Start with an online networking event

It was attending my first virtual networking session that opened my eyes to the power of networking and where I actually started enjoying them. If the thought of in-person networking feels too daunting for your first networking experience, then look for an online session instead. This way you can be in your own comfortable place during the call.
Plus if you feel too overwhelmed and you can’t carry on, just end the call (we lose internet connection all the time right?).

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• Practice introducing yourself

Now this doesn’t need to be a pitch by any means, but it’s a good idea to practice one or two sentences to introduce yourself and summarise what you do. You want to pinpoint key areas of what you do and who you do it for. Practicing this ensures you don’t get flustered when meeting new people. Keep it short sweet and crystal clear.

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• Shift your perspective

My biggest piece of advice would be to go into any networking event with the goal of meeting new people and making connections – not to find potential clients. Be authentic, have fun and be human, you might just meet your next business bestie at that event.
Supporting friends is easy right? So just go in with that mindset and it may just put you at ease. 

‌Conclusion:

As a small business we need all the positive connections we can get. That can mean help with finances to tech issues, there will be a connection for everyone at these events. 

Networking might not be your thing, and right now it might sound very unappealing, but trust me, if I can learn to love it then so can you. Hi, hello, introvert with a high dose of anxiety and PTSD over here!!

I hope you can use these tips to step out of that comfort zone, have fun and share with the world what your fantastic business is all about!

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