I have been in your shoes. I’ve made many excuses NOT to attend networking events. What will I say? Will I come across as accomplished? My confidence shrinking before I even step out the door!
Whether you are an introvert or an extrovert, we all have insecurities about building our visibility. I have experienced those feelings and overcome them by stepping into action. Taking action will build confidence.
I’m introverted, but I understand that networking is essential to my success. I created systems and tools in my life to overcome my nature and be successful in group settings. The networking tips below will help you move from self doubt to self assurance!
Step One: Visualize
The first step to overcome your self-doubt is to visualize yourself at the event being confident. See yourself walking into the room with a big smile on your face. Your body language is powerful as you shake people’s hands. Visualize yourself as an ambassador, ready to be of service to others.
Step Two: Plan
The next thing to do is to plan for the event. Plan your wardrobe in advance so you can choose your outfit with intention. Being mindful of your choices is a confidence booster in an of itself! If you are taking a briefcase or tote, pack it in advance. Anticipate what you will need and organize it so everything is easily accessible. Don’t forget to have plenty of business cards on hand, as old-fashioned networking is back! Plan to arrive a few minutes early so you can sit in your car and get present!
Step Three: Fine Tune
Up to 90% of your communication is non-verbal so what you say is less important than how you carry and express yourself. Fine tuning your body language is a powerful way to amp your confidence. Each morning stand with your back flat and shoulders against a wall. Hold your head high and focus on lengthening your spine. Now activate (or tighten) all of your posture muscles and stand strong for 2 minutes while breathing deeply. Smile for extra measure! When you do this regularly your muscle memory will kick in and you’ll look and feel more confident in any setting!
Step Four: Self Care
The next step to overcome your introvert impulse is self-care which is truly the foundation of your personal brand. This includes nutrition, exercise, sleep, quiet time, grooming, and a focus on gratitude. The care you show yourself is the secret sauce to building confidence and more importantly, self love. The energy you exude when your self care is in high gear will make you magnetic.
Step Five: Articulation
Know exactly what to say when someone asks you about your business. In one simple statement share who you are, who your target market is, and the benefits of buying your products and services. Don’t overthink it, keep it short, and use clear, straightforward language. Practice it until you know it so well you can deliver it in a conversational manner.
Bonus: Strengthen your confidence muscle pre-event by listening to an inspiring podcast or motivational music. This will set the tone for the kind of energy you’re going to bring with you into the room. Show your pearly whites and enter the event with your own brand of glow.
For more of my favorite networking tips on how to walk into a room feeling confident and ready to take control, please enjoy my free e-book Step Into Your Power. I challenge you to overcome your self-doubt and take action to accomplish what you’ve never been able to up until now!