The document discusses empowered networking for introverts. It acknowledges that introverts may find networking difficult due to discomfort with large groups and conversations. However, it argues that networking is a skill that can be learned through practice. The document provides tips for introverts to feel more comfortable networking, such as joining smaller groups, arriving early, asking questions, and bringing a friend for support. Overall, the document aims to encourage introverts by showing how they can develop networking skills in a way that plays to their strengths as listeners and observers.

1. O p p o r t u n i t y b e y o n d h a n d s h a k e
EMPOWERED NETWORKING
for INTROVERTS
• Is it true that introverts do not like to network?
• Does the thought of entering a room full of
people horrify you?

2. O p p o r t u n i t y b e y o n d h a n d s h a k eEmpowered Networking for INTROVERTS
"I can't hold a conversation."
"I find it tiring to be around lots
of other people."
Do these statements
describe you?

3. O p p o r t u n i t y b e y o n d h a n d s h a k e
YOU CAN OVERCOME!
“ Networking is a learned behaviour, very much
like learning to swim or cycle. Most people
are not born networkers - it does not come
naturally to them. Equip yourself with the
right mindset, education, training, exposure,
and lots of practice, and you can become
great at networking.” ~ MERVIN YEO
Empowered Networking for INTROVERTS

4. O p p o r t u n i t y b e y o n d h a n d s h a k e
• They think before they speak. They are
thoughtful and prepared.
• They focus on one thing at a time especially
with the person they are talking to.
• They are good listeners. They prefer to
listen more than talk.
• They are observant.
• They make better decisions.
ATTRIBUTES OF INTROVERTS
Empowered Networking for INTROVERTS

5. O p p o r t u n i t y b e y o n d h a n d s h a k e
INTROVERTS MAKE GOOD NETWORKERS
In a networking session, would you
prefer to mingle with someone who talks
about themselves all the time, or
someone who listens attentively?
The introvert dislikes making small talk
and do not have a loud sales pitch. As
salespeople, they are more subtle than
aggressive.
Empowered Networking for INTROVERTS

6. O p p o r t u n i t y b e y o n d h a n d s h a k e
Tip 1: JOIN SMALLER GROUPS
Socialising in large
groups may not work
for introverts. Join
small networking
groups. Start small
and gradually develop
your networking
muscle.
Empowered Networking for INTROVERTS

7. O p p o r t u n i t y b e y o n d h a n d s h a k e
Tip 2: ARRIVE EARLY
Arrive early at the
event or meeting
when the crowd is
small. You will find it
less intimidating. This
gives you time to
warm up to the
people and the
environment.
Empowered Networking for INTROVERTS

8. O p p o r t u n i t y b e y o n d h a n d s h a k e
TIP 3: JOIN A REGULAR GROUP
Pick a networking group
which meets regularly.
You may be quiet
during the first few
meetings, but you will
start to see familiar
faces. After several
meetings, you will begin
to feel more comfortable.
Empowered Networking for INTROVERTS

9. O p p o r t u n i t y b e y o n d h a n d s h a k e
TIP 4: BRING A FRIEND
If you do not feel
comfortable going
to a networking
event alone, bring
along a co-worker,
a friend, or a
business associate.
Empowered Networking for INTROVERTS

10. O p p o r t u n i t y b e y o n d h a n d s h a k e
TIP 5: ASK QUESTIONS
Capitalise on your strength
of listening well by asking
prepared questions. Be
curious to find out more.
Be totally present during
the conversation. Listen
attentively to their stories.
Empowered Networking for INTROVERTS

11. O p p o r t u n i t y b e y o n d h a n d s h a k e
mervin@mervinyeo.com
How introverted am I?
How can I be more confident in networking?
MERVIN
If you have any of these questions…
Empowered Networking for INTROVERTS

12. O p p o r t u n i t y b e y o n d h a n d s h a k e
Networking Evangelist, Speaker, Author
Mervin Yeo, a contributing author in New York Times best-
seller “Masters of Networking”, provides training, consulting,
and mentoring to business professionals on purposeful
networking and strategic referral marketing. A published
author of numerous books, he lives and breathes, speaks
and teaches the language of referrals.
mervinyeo.com