I’m an Introvert, but How Can I Sometimes Pretend to be an Extrovert so I Can Network and Build my Business Contacts?

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You shouldn’t try to be something you’re not. If you do, then you’re not being genuine and you’re misrepresenting yourself—which is not the best way to build connections with business contacts. Keep in mind that meaningful relationships are built on trust, not pretend.

Own your introversion and thrive! Believe it or not introverts often make better networkers. But you need to realize your strengths and what energizes you, and then leverage this to create business connections. Do you feel introverted in a large group, but when surrounded by a small number of people or in a one-on-one situation, you don’t feel as reserved? Or think about, what hot topics are being discussed when you’re networking? If it’s something you’re more comfortable with you’re more apt to participate in a conversation about it.

While networking may not come as naturally to you as it may to others, once you tap into your proper energy source and figure out the right events to go to or the right meetings to set up, you’ll find yourself creating the foundation for meaningful relationships. Think about the following:

  • To start, figure out the value you offer to others—once you’re confident in the worth you can provide it’s easier to engage in discussions. It’s not all about what others can do for you, developing mutually beneficial relationships is what networking is really all about.
  • What types of business contacts are you looking to make? Take part in activity-based networking, for instance join a club or volunteer where people work together with a common goal or task in mind—this is a great way to get to know people and often without the initial awkwardness of having to find something to talk about.
  • Prepare for networking events and research as much as you can ahead of time about the attendees, venue and speakers, and the same goes for one-on-one meetings—the more you know will help increase your comfort and confidence level.
  • Be ready before any of your meetings with conversation starters and ways to politely end a discussion— this makes it easier to approach others
  • When attending networking events think about bringing a wingman!

I also recommend checking out our online courses, especially Get NetWorkWise Certified where we specifically address networking tips for introverts, and also offer our prestigious professional networking certification.

Make it a great day and remember to always NetWorkWise.

This article originally appeared on Quora.

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