TIN #081 - Networking Conversations: Scripts and Strategies for Introverts
Essential Networking Tips: How to Prepare, Connect, and Follow-Up
Hey there, fellow introvert!
It's Greg, back again with another edition of our journey into networking without the overwhelm.
This week, I’m exploring the art of networking meetings - those coffee chats, lunches, and one-on-one catch-ups that can open doors you never knew existed.
This issue takes about 4 minutes to read.
But Before We Get Started…
My online course, “5 Steps To Grow Your Professional Network,” is FREE for all my newsletter subscribers. Learn the process I use everyday to grow my professional network.
Each week, I post a new podcast with tips you’ll find in the weekly newsletter and bonus stories, wisdom, and motivation. The Introverted Networker podcast is like the weekly newsletter but with additional narration and thoughts from me. Be sure to listen to this week’s podcast and check out the previous episodes of the podcast as well.
The video version of the podcast is available on my YouTube channel.
Reconnect with Purpose
Let's start with the power of reconnecting.
A former colleague reached out to me through LinkedIn, sparking a conversation that reminded me why it's crucial to keep in touch with past connections.
When I got a message from this person I worked with in the past, I was open to having an in-person conversations with her.
Why?
Because I already know her. I’m open to talking to her to catch-up and find out what’s new with her.
Whether you're job hunting or just keeping your network warm, reaching out to people you've previously worked with can lead to fruitful discussions.
Be Upfront and Make It Easy
Honesty is your best policy.
When you reconnect with someone, if you're looking for opportunities or need advice, just say it.
There's no need to dance around the topic.
My connection told me she had been laid-off and was looking for a new role. There’s nothing wrong with that.
Of course I want to help her and knowing what she’s trying to accomplish by connecting with me helps me think about what I can do for her.
And when you're the one initiating the meet-up, take charge of the logistics.
Make it super easy for the other person to say "yes" by being flexible with your time and location.
More about this here:
The Meeting Itself: A Two-Way Street
During the meeting, remember it's not just about you.
Yes, you're there to seek guidance or opportunities, but also show interest in the other person's work and insights.
Sharing a book recommendation or discussing mutual connections can make the conversation more valuable for both parties.
Action Items for Your Meetings:
Be Clear About Your Intent: When reaching out, be clear about why you want to meet. It sets the right expectations and helps both sides prepare.
Take the Lead on Logistics: Suggest times, pick a convenient location, and send a calendar invite. Your effort will be appreciated.
Engage in Mutual Exchange: Show interest in the other person's experiences and share your insights or recommendations. It's about building relationships, not just taking advice.
Follow Up and Say Thanks: A simple "thank you" email goes a long way. Share any progress you've made based on their advice to show you value their time.
Don't Forget Your Target Company List
One crucial tip: bring a Target Company List (TCL) to your meetings.
This isn't just a job search strategy; it's a networking goldmine.
Knowing where you want to head helps the other person think of contacts to introduce you to.
It's a tangible way to turn a good conversation into potential opportunities.
Need help on creating your TCL? Check out TIN #006 - Don't Give People Your Resume (Do This Instead)
Closing Thoughts
Networking meetings can be daunting, especially for us introverts.
But with a little preparation and a focus on making it easy and beneficial for both parties, these meetings can become something you look forward to.
Remember, every conversation is a step forward in your networking journey.
So, go out there, reconnect with purpose, and make every meeting count!
Let me know how these tips work out for you. Y
our feedback is what keeps this community growing stronger. Here's to making meaningful connections, one coffee at a time.
Until next time,
Greg
Before You Go…
Check out a couple of interesting links I’ve come across this week:
Damien Monel had a great share on LinkedIn about coming up with the names of people you already know. Be sure to check it out!
Charles Duhigg is an author I’ve always admired. He wrote The Power of Habit and shared a post in his newsletter titled, “How Do I Survive Small Talk?” It has some great tips for your networking conversations.
This is brilliant. I love it! Thanks. I love a little bit of networking but I’m much better at the virtual kind than the F2F kind!!