Networking Tips for Writers Who are Introverts

Networking can be a scary concept for writers who are introverts but it doesn’t have to be. If you follow the right networking tips for writers, then you might actually enjoy the process. Plus it broadens the scope of your work. But the initial idea is enough to send most introverts back to their desk.

Introverts are drained by social encounters and reenergized by creativity. This is why there’s a common link between introverts and artistic prowess. However, it’s also essential that writers are able to network. Seems like a paradox, doesn’t it?

Well there are some networking tips for writersthat I have used to help me survive networking events and social gatherings. It takes effort and is a never-ending struggle, but with time and grueling practice, you’ll be able to survive these events and come out stronger than ever!

Networking Tips for Writers#1: Connect Before the Event

Introverts are advised to refrain from showing up to social events in an attempt to make cold connections. It’s important to have a few warm leads going into the event. What this means is that you need people who you have already connected with to also be there so that you have the basis for conversation initially. You can even agree to meet certain people before the event in a smaller social setting, like coffee or lunch. Having people you know at an event makes it a whole lot easier to be comfortable enough to then converse with cold leads.

Networking Tips for Writers #2: Focus on One Person at a Time

Focus on the person closest to you and start up a conversation. Ask questions and try to find common interests without making it come across as an interview. Then truly listen to what they have to say. Pretend you are writing a paper about this person and be attentive. Keep the conversation casual by not thinking about what to say next. Just let the conversation happen naturally. Listening is one of the best skills of an introvert so use it to your advantage.

Networking Tips for Writers #3: Don’t Make it a Competition

During networking events, you’re going to hear success stories from a lot of people so it’s important that you go into these events in a non-competitive mindset. Never compare yourself to anyone else. Remember, we all have different goals and everyone exaggerates, so some of those stories might be out of context. Regardless, another person’s success means little to your own success so just think of it as an opportunity to meet new people and learn valuable social skills.

Patience is a Virtue

Building valuable relationships doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time so you will need to treat this like a long-term goal. Chances are that you won’t get hundreds of new connections at your first networking event so don’t get disheartened if you only get a few. What’s important is that you develop networking skills.

Hopefully, these networking tips will help you break out of your shell and start forming valuable relationships.