Hey everyone,

8 Comments

1. Alexis GladstoneMay 28,2025 at 12:25PM UTC

   First, set a goal of talking to x number of people. Not just saying hi, but having a conversation with. Don't feel you need to meet everyone. If you can walk away with 2-3 people that you want to have a follow-up conversation with, that's great. Once that happens, if you're anxiety is high, just leave! You've met your goal and have some names to contact.

   For the conversations, come up with a list of 5 questions you can ask to start. This way you are prepared and not needing to think of something in the moment. First introduce yourself then use one of them. Some things I've used include: Complimenting someone on something they are wearing such as "I love the style of your tote." This usually breaks the ice. "What brought you to this event?" "This is my first time here. Have you ever attended this event before?" "How did you hear about this event?" "Who are you looking forward to meeting/hearing speak?"

   Also, many times there is a "corner" where 1-2 people are standing looking as uncomfortable as you feel! They may be easier to start a conversation with. You can do this!

2. AnonymousMay 28,2025 at 2:20PM UTC

   As one with social anxiety, I understand the issue, but what works for one doesn't work for everyone. For me, therapy was my saving grace, as the therapist was able to help me develop the necessary ways to avoid the triggers and psych myself up for the event. For many people with social anxiety, immersion therapy (i.e., forcing yourself into as many social situations as you can get to) can help you develop a way to become comfortable in the crowd. For me, because it is associated with PTSD, immersion therapy is the worst thing because it triggers other PTSD symptoms. I have reached the point where the only large social situation that bothers me is one for which I am not prepared. All I have to do is psych myself up for the occasion. I went from being at risk of becoming a hermit to one who now enjoys attending events, singing in concerts, and having a good time at parties. It took some intensive therapy, but I finally got there.

3. AnonymousMay 28,2025 at 5:30PM UTC

   It takes great courage to walk up to someone in a crowded room. However, my suggestion is when you enroll and get started in your schooling, check with your career services dept. if they have one, and ask if there are any career fairs you can attend. Then go to these and only talk to a few companies or orgs. Don't go in worried about how they will feel. Recruiters are very well known for putting students at ease. If you are going to a networking event specific to your degree somewhere off campus, start off small with a small group. You are not alone. Tons of people get wigged out in a crowd. I see this often as I manage student events of about 2000 people. Always smile, it brings people at ease, and it also helps you feel more calm. Practice small talk in a mirror or in your car. It's always good to talk to others based on your interests, such as hey, I saw you are also taking Dr. Smith's class on XYZ. I've enjoyed so far, what are your thoughts on it? Always ask open ended questions allowing the speaker to expand (instead of a closed ended answer which is Yes or No). Also, look into joining any social groups that want to learn how to network. You've got this! Don't let fear guide you, let curiosity guide you.

4. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistMay 30,2025 at 8:42AM UTC

   I suggest you check out Toastmasters. They are a non-profit with chapters all over that do exactly this - help you learn how to and help you get more comfortable with networking and public speaking.

5. AnonymousJune 1,2025 at 12:25PM UTC

   Agree you should check iut Toastmasters.

6. AnonymousJune 2,2025 at 1:01PM UTC

   One “networking for introverts” tip I got was to wear something unusual (but professional): a pin, a brightly colored scarf, patterned shoes. That gives people something to talk to you about. In the same vein, find someone that you can open a conversation with about something non-business related, that you like their necklace or glasses. Then you aren’t on the spot to be “networking” from the first thing you say.

7. AnonymousJune 6,2025 at 5:41PM UTC

   Find a toastmasters club near to your location. They specialize in helping people with exactly what you are talking about. They do it kindly and with strong support. Years ago I worked in HR in a company that brought them in house to help our engineers (typically introverts) to work closer and better together. It was a huge success. Try it! Good luck.

8. Erin VegaAugust 7,2025 at 8:55AM UTC

   Try ripplematch.com