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Networking for shy people.
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I remember one of my very first networking situations, I basically went and hid.
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I mean, I wasn't wrapped up in a curtain in the corner or anything, but I didn't talk to anybody, and it was total waste of time.
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But now that I've learned a few bits and pieces and gotten used to it.
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I have much richer experience of networking and it definitely pays off.
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I know it's a little bit awkward, but it's absolutely worth it.
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You might meet someone who can help you directly, or you might meet someone who can connect to someone in their network.
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So for example, I remember going to an event and meeting a podiatrist, and he was able to introduce me to the Australian editor of Harper's Bazaar.
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I mean that was so unexpected and cool.
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So I put together a bunch of tips—things that I've learnt over the years that might help you in networking.
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Tip 1: Introduce Yourself.
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I know that seems super obvious, but it is a bit of a weird social situation.
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So if I walk into a room, and there's a group of people, what I tend to do, is walk up to them and just say, "Hi, do you mind if I join you?"
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And of course they will welcome you.
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Be friendly, don't just get straight into business.
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Ask how their day's been, and then that next question can be "So tell me what you do?"
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And they've introduced yourself, and it's pretty easygoing.
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On the flip side, if you're in the group of people and you see someone standing by themselves, then invite them into your group.
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That way, you've done something really nice to them actually cause it's, you know, they're obviously experiencing a bit of awkwardness.
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And secondly, you've met another person.
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Tip 2 is short conversations.
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So, nobody is going to think that you're rude at all for having a short conversation.
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I mean, don't be abrupt, but look, you're not there to lock in and become best friends and all that sort of stuff.
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That might happen in the future, but definitely at this event, you're there to make lots and lots of connections.
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So have like short meaningful conversations and keep going.
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Tip 3: Business Cards.
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Don't forget to take your business cards with you.
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I've totally done this before it's huge pain in the butt.
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Also, to anyone whose business card you get, make sure e-mail them within 24 hours.
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This is for both of you.
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So for you, so you remember, you know, why you made that connection.
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Secondly, you're still fresh in their mind.
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And thirdly, so that when you do inevitably lose the business card, you'll have their details logged somewhere.
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So look, I really hope that these tips have helped you, and I would love to hear your tips as well.
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So please put them into the comments below, so I can learn from you.
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Hit me up on YouTube, just hit the subscribe button.
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If you would like to, and, you know, come see me on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook as well.
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Don't forget, do everything before you're ready, bye.