TIN #103 - 3 Proven Networking Scripts To Help You Overcome Networking Anxiety
Practical scripts and templates for various networking scenarios
Hey there, fellow introverts!
Last week, I asked what you wanted me to cover in this week’s newsletter.
Here’s the winning topic:
What to say during a networking conversation.
Let's break it down into simple steps to make these interactions less daunting.
This issue takes about 4 minutes to read…
Before We Get Started:
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Overthinking Networking Conversations? Stop!
First things first: don't overthink it.
We all worry about making a good impression, but remember, the other person is likely just as concerned about how they come across.
This is called the "spotlight effect," a term I learned from Sahil Bloom. It’s the belief that everyone is watching and judging our every move, but in reality, they're not.
They’re too busy worrying about themselves.
Mindset Matters
Before engaging in a conversation, adjust your mindset.
Remind yourself that networking is not about impressing others, but about connecting and building relationships.
Here are a few tips:
Be Curious: Approach the conversation with genuine curiosity about the other person.
Be Yourself: Authenticity goes a long way in building trust and rapport.
Be Patient: Building meaningful connections takes time.
Reconnecting with Familiar Faces
If you're starting with people you already know, keep it simple.
Here’s a script for reaching out on LinkedIn or via email:
"Hey [Name], it's been a while since we were in touch. How are things going?"
You can add a bit more detail if you’d like:
"After we worked together at [Company], I went to [New Company]. I’d love to catch up and hear what you’ve been up to. Let’s reconnect!"
Remember, the goal is to re-establish the connection and open a dialogue, not to overwhelm them with information.
You can read more about this in TIN #002 - How To Re-Connect With The Network You Already Have.
Cold Emailing Strangers
When reaching out to someone you don’t know, use a structured approach.
I recommend Austin Belcak’s cold email template from Cultivated Culture. Here’s a quick overview:
Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself.
Compliment: Mention something specific you admire about their work.
Reason for Reaching Out: Clearly state why you’re contacting them.
Make It Easy To Respond: Ask the person a question that is very easy to answer.
Be grateful: Thank them for their time.
You can find the full template here.
The In-Person Conversation
Whether you're meeting in person or over the phone, focus on making the conversation about them.
Here are some questions to get you started:
"What’s something exciting that’s happened to you recently?"
"What are you working on right now?"
"What challenges are you facing at work?"
Remember, listen more than you talk.
Show genuine interest in their responses and think about how you can help them, whether it’s an introduction, a recommendation, or simply a good piece of advice.
I go into more detail on these networking meetings in TIN #003 - What To Say In A Networking Conversation.
Resources to Dive Deeper
If you need more structure, check out the book The 20-Minute Networking Meeting.
It provides a detailed template for your networking conversations and is a quick read.
Closing Thoughts
Networking doesn't have to be stressful.
Focus on being curious, genuine, and patient.
Listen more than you speak, and you'll find that conversations flow naturally.
If you have any specific questions or need more help, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Comment below, reply to this newsletter, or send me an email.
Have a great week and happy networking!