10 Tried and True Networking Tips from an Introvert Investor

As we come out of the pandemic investing era, one thing is certain. In-person events are back. To many this is amazing news! However many of my fellow introverted investors may not be as eager as our extroverted counterparts. 

Networking is too important to sit out. Plain and simple. So, I came up with some ways to ease the awkward of in-person meetups. 

1. Create your own meetup or volunteer for one 

This may seem counterintuitive but it works! Playing the role of host allows you to work the room and introduce yourself as part of the meetup. No excuse necessary - you can simply check-in with people, ask if they are new to the meetup and make an introduction. 

Extra points if you can somehow identify yourself as part of the meetup (shirts, nametape etc.)

2. Get a friend to go with you and walk in with

Have a friend that is interested in investing? Or maybe a friend that is willing to be a good sport? Going with a friend can make that intimidating initial entrance a breeze. Just make sure that you are engaging with people outside of you current sphere. 

3. Pre-Network online before going to the meetup

Don't have a friend that is willing to stomach an hour presentation on home loans? There is someone out there who is, trust me! 

If the meetup has social pages, get on them and see if you have any common connections. Reach out and ask if people will be attending the event  and have some initial discussions. This way you can continue those talking points when you see them in person. 

4. Look for open circles of people to join in or people by themselves

Look for people by themselves or people with an open discussion and hit them with a simple "Can I join you?" The answer will be yes! However, it's good to ask to give yourself an entry point and the ability to introduce yourself instead of just standing by and listening. 

5. Give genuine compliments 

This is one of my go-to moves for striking up a conversation with people who are not currently engaged in one already. You could compliment someone on a physical item or perhaps commend them on something they shared with the group. 

An example 

"I overheard you closed on a new multifamily downtown, that's awesome. I really enjoy that area and think you made a great buy" 

6. Be honest!

Don't be afraid to share how you are feeling. You would be surprised to know just how many real estate rockstars started out hiding in their car before an event. 

My first time attending a meetup I mentioned that I am a newbie to the sign-up person. This usually strikes up a warm welcome and friendly conversation about the group. Everyone was new at one time or another. 

7. Come prepared with questions

Intimidated but really want to chat with the speakers? This is me at every meetup. One thing that I have found success with is to research and ask great questions during Q&A. 

Try to research a question that the speaker is passionate about and maybe has not answered before. Think less about your own needs and think about what they would like to highlight in front of the group. Afterwards, you can approach them, touch on any follow-up and ask the other burning questions you may have. 

8. Get your 'elevator pitch' ready

Craft a few sentences about yourself to have ready for quick introductions. Touch on what you are doing now, what you would like to be doing, and something unique about yourself or a unique skillset. Keep it simple and be open to discussing those points further. 

9. Dress up! 

Most events will not have a dress code. That being said, most networking events take place in the evenings and people often come straight from work. So you may find yourself being the only person in jeans and a sweatshirt. If that is what you are most comfortable in, go for it! Just know that many people will be in business causal type attire. 

10. Try out different groups and meetups structures

Use those meetups, conferences and larger events to find smaller groups of people to network with. Join or create a mastermind group or simply find one person to share your goals with on a regular basis. Networking is not a one-size-fits-all situation. Try out some different groups and see what works well for you.