๐ก๐ฒ๐๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ธ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ฟ๐? ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฒ’๐ ๐๐ผ๐ ๐๐ผ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐พ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐ง๐ต๐ฒ๐บ
Does the thought of walking into a room full of strangers and having to “sell” yourself make your palms sweat? You’re not alone – many people struggle with networking fears and anxiety. But what if we reframed networking as simply making authentic connections and building relationships, rather than an intimidating pitch? With some mindset shifts and practical tips, you can overcome those nerves and start forging meaningful professional bonds.
When I started my virtual assistant business in 2017, I had no idea about networking and, quite frankly, the thought of it filled me with fear. How did I get over that? I’m not 100% sure I have but I now know how to overcome it and, in the words of Susan Jeffers: “Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway“.
The key thing I did to face my fear was to start my own group – Cheltenham Ladies Who Latte. I realise that’s not for everyone so I’ve written this short article to help you if the thought of walking into a room full of strangers and having to “sell” yourself makes your palms sweat.
Networking can feel intimidating at first but it doesn’t have to be! It isn’t about aggressively promoting yourself or delivering a perfect 60-second pitch. It’s simply about making connections and authentically building relationships. Here are some tips to help you get over those networking jitters:
๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ณ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐บ๐ฒ ๐ฌ๐ผ๐๐ฟ ๐ ๐ถ๐ป๐ฑ๐๐ฒt to Conquer Your Fears
Instead of seeing it as a nerve-wracking event, view it as an opportunity to meet new people who could become friends, mentors or collaborators. A simple change in perspective and mindset can work wonders.
๐๐๐ธ ๐ค๐๐ฒ๐๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป๐
One of the best ways to take the spotlight off yourself is to get the other person talking. Ask them about their background, interests or goals – people love to share their stories when someone is genuinely listening.
๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฎ ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ป๐ฑ
Having a familiar face by your side can provide a confidence boost, at least initially. Agree to split up and mingle after you’ve had a chance to settle in.
๐ฆ๐๐ฎ๐ ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐
If you start to feel anxious, take a few deep breaths and return your attention to the moment. Networking is all about making real connections, not putting on an act. Practice Makes Progress.
The more you put yourself out there, the more comfortable you’ll become. Attending regular networking events helps build crucial skills like listening, conversing, and communicating your value. Remember that everyone is in a similar position – we all want to meet new people and create meaningful relationships. So don’t let your fears hold you back! My next Cheltenham Ladies Who Latte meetup is the perfect low-pressure environment to start practising. I’ll be there to cheer you on!
Here are some of us at our new venue – Brickhampton Court, Churchdown.
ย ๐๐๐ค๐๐ค ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ – Susan Lyddon, MIoEE,
Sam Johnstone
Director at Secretarial and Administration Management Ltd
