You push open the door, in front of you is a heaving mass of people. The room is filled with the noise of conversations, you wonder how to think let alone generate leads.
What’s worse these conversations are going on and you are not part of them. Your pulse quickens and your temperature rises.
For some business owners people, a big room full of people can be a very intimidating sight; knowing that you have to network with them even worse!
Even some highly experienced networkers, like me, at moments like this can feel a small voice saying to them “you’ll never be able to break into a conversation”, before you know it, you’ve almost managed to talk yourself into a networking nightmare.
How can you conquer this fear?
- Prior to the event arrange to meet some people there. This is an easy way of making sure you get to the event and quickly propels you into that first conversation.
- Arrive promptly, or preferably slightly early, then you’re not presented with a room full of people as you walk
- Set yourself a goal of having 3 quality conversations whilst you’re there. Now you won’t be under pressure to think you have to rapidly circulate and talk to everyone.
- Quietly say a few personal affirmations (e.g. ‘I’m a great networker’ or ‘I’m going to have some great conversations at this event’ or ‘people will want to talk to me’) before you enter the room, as this will help your confidence.
- How would you advise someone who finds large rooms of people intimidating?
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