Secrets Introverts Use to Network with Startups and Find a Way In
It’s a common misconception introverts aren’t social. But introverts are well-suited for life at a startup if they can make their presence known to decision makers.
Did you know Bill Gates, Elon Musk, and Steve Wozniak are all self-described introverts?
And they’re just part of a long line of influential introverts throughout history[*].
While many people think introverts are socially awkward, incapable of networking, and generally prefer to work by themselves instead of on a team, these misconceptions couldn’t be further from the truth.
While it may be a bit harder to make a true connection with a new person, many introverts have a specific skill set perfectly suited for life at a startup — if they can manage to stand out and make their presence known.
So before you apply for a startup or attend your next networking event, use these tips to get your foot in the door with ease.
Networking for Introverts: 6 Tips for Success
Introverts are naturally curious and establish close connections with teammates, which is ideal for our ever-increasing virtual workplaces. They also listen well and help translate ideas into tangibles.
If you can show startup decision makers and hiring managers you have these traits, you’ll impress and still stay true to yourself.
Here’s how:
Make Your Presence Known Online First
The easiest way to put yourself out there and let people get to know you is by sharing what makes you so unique.
So start using your website, Twitter, LinkedIn, and other social media accounts to:
- Discuss your thoughts on hot topics in your industry niche
- Connect with experts in your field
- Comment on interesting articles
- Share your work (like a design portfolio, websites you’ve coded, clients you’ve worked with, etc.)
All these show strangers who stumble upon your domain who you are and what you bring to the table — before ever speaking to you in real life.
While these pages can do all the hard work of marketing yourself as an attractive candidate online, you may still need to get yourself out there and attend a networking event.
Fortunately you can always bring a friend to tag along and make the process less intimidating.
Use the Buddy System
Networking events feel less scary when you have someone you know by your side. If the event is super boring and you’re not feeling it, at least you can have fun with each other.
Try to pick one of your more extroverted friends so they’ll be able to start up conversations and introduce you while you take it from there.
And yes, that does mean you’ll need to engage in small talk. But if you play your cards right, it may not be for long.
Prepare for Small Talk
Many introverts don’t have a problem with small talk; they just generally prefer to have a real conversation to get to know someone on a deeper level.
So before you head out to your networking event or group interview, don’t just think about what you want to say to everyone you meet, think about what you want to know about others.
Rehearse a few blurbs you’d like to share about yourself (such as your current role or passions) and then prepare a few questions to ask those you meet so you’re not fumbling for easy conversation.
Practice your questions in the mirror or on your attending friend to get more comfortable before you meet a decision maker.
Find the Other Outsider
If you’re not attending an event with a friend and you’re flying solo, chances are another introvert will be there making best friends with the walls too.
Seek out this introverted companion and become a duo to reckon with.
When you two buddy up, you’ll be able to zero in on each other’s strengths, build each other’s confidence, and play wingperson for each other.
While you learn the types of jobs or connections your new friend is seeking, they’ll do the same for you. They may even know someone you’re curious to meet and do you a solid with an introduction.
But that’s only if you make the extra effort to form a connection with them first.
And one of the best ways to connect is by using this next tip.
Keep Conversation Focused On Them and their Projects
It’s no secret extroverts like talking about themselves; it’s why it’s so easy for them to network and humble brag to make connections which eventually lead to new positions.
Introverts don’t usually feel this comfortable talking up their achievements, even if they’re astounding.
Since introverts are excellent listeners and naturally curious, you can take the pressure off speaking about yourself and focus on the other person instead.
Ask lots of questions (and follow-up questions) during your one-on-ones and engage in memorable conversations you can then refer back to when you reach out to connect online or again in person.
Follow Up Later to Cement the Connection
After you make a stellar first impression, ask for a business card (virtual or paper) and make sure to follow up with each person you meet within two business days.
You can either add them as a connection on LinkedIn, follow them on Twitter, or shoot them an email, for example. Whichever you choose, personalize a message to let them know you want to be part of their network.
Use the talking points you discussed to open that door and remind each new connection of who you are. It’s likely they’ll remember your great conversation, follow you to become more familiar with your work, or add you right back.
Try to close your message with a question so you keep conversation flowing and deepen your relationship.
Don’t Forget to Check Unicorn Hunt for Open Startup Jobs Too
Though these tips will help you strategize a networking plan to connect with other startup employees, you can always click over to Unicorn Hunt and apply for a job at a startup right from your computer or smartphone.
You may not need to brave a large crowd of experts or practice small talk, but you’ll still need to vet a startup properly, sell your best skills, and have a few interview questions and answers ready to fire off.
And then you can go back to hanging out by yourself or with your core group of friends.
