How to Network at meeet ups or event.

[Genene G.]

 Hello BP,

Here's my dilemma. I want to Network more, unify with like minds  & grow as an investor. My problem seems the larger the group I'm shy or chill, if I have to approach others then I get a little overwhelmed & would rather stay in place letting others come to me as I feel that I don't want to bother, pressure or be the first to talk with an introduction, i'm more go with the flow type person. I feel like I like for me, the smaller, more intimate gatherings or familiar locations, I'm better in. 

It seems as when I don't know anyone or a new location it's hard for me to be comfortable to walk up to another person or group. I'm very comfortable with myself, it seems as I don't have that social butterfly skills for networking.

Like last night I made the first move to introduce myself, shake hands with a gentleman he totally looked at me stated his name & walked away.   

I am introverted in my personal life. In business I'm a social person but more on my own turf...

Any tips or things they helped others get past the introvert hump? 

Thanks so much

[Scott Mac]

Hi Genene,

About the gentleman who totally looked at you stated his name & walked away.

My guess is his wife was there too, and he didn't want to get the cold shoulder at home for "Chatting up" a lady she didn't know. 

Also, I like to network, always have. It's easy for me, so I'll give you a tip.

Don't see the room as 60 people and you're there for 2 hours or whatever.

Instead just go for a walk around and listen to others talk, then towards the end of their conversation just say "My name is Genene, what you were talking about is VERY interesting" and then ask some "little" question about it.

Then you let them talk from there. At the end of that "Ask for their card" and you hand them yours. Bingo--you now have 1 new business friend and have their card. They know you and you know them.

If you are burnt out by only one business card, leave and go have a nice small reward meal somewhere you like (IHop is open 24/7). Then go home knowing you are moving forward (at your speed). 

Go with the flow. If you feel like leading the conversation do it. If you don't just be a smiling listening face that trades business cards before the talkers break away from each other.

Business friends are made one at a time, and you seem like a "Quality" vs "Quantity" type, so just go with the flow!

Good Luck!