Ep. 045: An Introvert’s Guide to Networking, with Trina Isakson

Networking events can be, for an introvert, a worst case scenario. This is why introverts need to be prepared, strategic and have a clear goal of what they want to accomplish before attending a conference or event. Today’s guest expert, Trina Isakson says that introverts gain energy from being alone and a common misconception is to think of introverts as socially awkward or shy.

In business today, most networking events are designed around the ‘spray and pray’ method of handing out business cards to a copious amount of people. Introverts may see this exercise as a vampire slowly draining their energy levels, both mentally and physically. Trina shares her tips which allow an introvert to make the most out of a conference or live event. And, she reminds us the true goal of networking events should be to build meaningful relationships which add value to our lives and the lives of others.

Tips for introverts to get the most out of networking events:

• Attend the same conference year after year
• The conference topic must be interesting to you
• Focus energy on building deep and meaningful connections
• Identify people who can be a beneficial strategic connection
• Be generous to those who hold less power than you
• Have a purpose by volunteering for a position at the conference
• Stay in touch with purpose

Trina stresses that quality contacts matter more than the quantity of contacts you make. Introverts who may feel they are bothering their newly made contacts can maintain a professional relationship with a quick email in place of a meeting.

Trina Isakson Bio

Trina is a strategist and researcher who works with nonprofit leaders and social innovators. As founder and principal thinker at 27 Shift, her clients include government, higher education, and national nonprofit organizations. She has also taught university courses on community development, leadership and management, and is the founder of the Quiet Changemaker Project, the Quiet Change Maker FB Group and the Do Good Better Podcast. Thank you, Trina, for contributing to this Introvert’s Guide to Networking podcast.

Ben’s Job Search Resources:

The Introvert Entrepreneur is the work of consultant, Beth Buelow. The site is designed to assist introverts by amplifying their strengths. The accompanying The Introvert Entrepreneur Podcast has been ranked one of the Top 10 Business Podcasts.

Jenna’s Find Your Dream Job Listener Question:

Ben, Jenna and Mac provide their feedback to answer Jonathan Chambers’ question “How do I set myself apart from college grads when I have 7 years experience running a successful company but no paper degree yet?”

These segments are sponsored by the 2016 edition of Land Your Dream Job in Portland (and Beyond). Now available in all formats!

If you would like the team to answer a job related question send it to jenna@macslist.org. Or, if you found a job resource you think everyone should know about send it to ben@macslist.org and tell him how it has helped you find your dream job.

Thank you for listening to Find Your Dream Job. If you like this show, please help us by rating and reviewing our podcast on iTunes. We appreciate your support!

Opening and closing music for Find Your Dream Job provided by Freddy Trujillo,www.freddytrujillo.com.

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