How to Schmooze at Events If You're Shy

Even shy people can master the art of the schmooze.

If you want to make connections, whether it's in your profession or personal life, you have to schmooze. Many people look down on schmoozing as an insincere act that's meant to manipulate, but the real goal of schmoozing is to expand your professional reach. To expand your professional reach, you must build real, personal relationships. Building personal relationships is not outside the realm of the shy or introverted.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Start small. Ask someone a simple question that you can build on. Start talking to people you know, such as friends, business associates or fellow alumni, and ask them to introduce you to others.

2. Think of schmoozing as your opportunity to help others. People tend to think that schmoozing and networking is all about their needs, but once you start seeing networking as way to leverage your own success on behalf of others, you can build your confidence in greeting people at events.

3. Be prepared with a small greeting and an elevator pitch you can give people when you first meet. Knowing a few words that you're going to succinctly say about yourself can help prevent you from becoming tongue tied when meeting someone.

4. If you're feeling awkward, mention it and ask for advice on talking to others. If you're not naturally extroverted, you shouldn't force it. Instead, be yourself and be honest that you're not the most outgoing person. Your quiet personality can help you be a better listener, and one who can help come up with solutions for others.

5. Be positive and upbeat at events. Even if you do confess that you're awkward, don't act negative about it, such as saying "I don't know why I'm here." It's best to let people know that you're excited about attending the event and that you want to meet people.

6. Don't fear rejection. Many people who are shy lack confidence or fear rejection. Know that not everyone is going to be interested in helping you, and that's okay.

References

• CIO.com: How to Network: 12 Tips for Shy People