Overcoming The "N" Word

Palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy…

At one time in your life, you may be faced with a situation where you don't know anyone. You appear polished, but your insides feel anything but put together. In your trendy, New York-esque business attire, you force yourself to walk up to someone, politely smile, introduce yourself, and ask where they work. This, my friends, is called networking.

Have no fear; it doesn’t have to be intimidating. You can overcome it with these five tips:

1.) Have a plan and use your time wisely.

Before you attend a networking event, figure out what your intentions are. Make goals to talk to a certain amount of people. This way, you will be productive and not waste your time.

2.) Be a friend.

It’s always great to have insightful conversation with someone. Although, you should steer clear of trying to talk too business-heavy. If all you do is try and gain business, you may come off as desperate. It’s always important to come off personable and trustworthy. You need to build a foundation before you do any kind of asking.

3.) You’re not alone.

Oftentimes at networking events, the majority of the room doesn’t know each other. Everyone is there to mingle and wants someone to talk to. When you walk up to someone and initiate the conversation, you not only give the other person relief, but come off as confident.

4.) Make good choices.

If there is alcohol present, be responsible. Use good judgment and limit yourself on drinks. You want to be presentable and professional. If you can’t control your alcoholic intake, how are you supposed to have good senses? It doesn’t work.

5.) Practice makes perfect.

After a few networking events under your belt, you’ll feel like you’ve acquired a knack for them. You can put your scared self behind you and step into the scene like the Queen B you were meant to be. Good luck!

posted by Victoria Tropiano

#life #lifestyle #postgrad #work