Generally speaking, introverts do not look forward to networking events, but view them as a necessary evil. Unfortunately, you don’t gain any benefit from attending a networking event if you sit in a corner by yourself or only talk to people you already know. If you tend to fall into either of those traps, or if you avoid networking altogether because you find it too difficult to engage in conversation with strangers, you owe it to yourself to read Maria Marsala’s Top 10 Questions To Ask At A Networking Meeting. They include everything from basic information such as “Tell me about your company” and “May I have your business card” to more specific questions like “What is the best way to refer someone to you?”

Perhaps the best suggestion in Ms. Marsala’s article is to prepare your own answers to those questions as well – that way, when someone approaches you, you won’t be tongue-tied and go home saying “I wish I’d thought of telling him about….”!

Last fall I wrote about business communication coach Nancy Ancowitz, who offers a course called “Self-Promotion for Introverts.” I’ve just found out that she has a new course coming up in March, called Presentation Skills for Introverts. Sure makes me wish I was closer to New York City! I’ve been asked to speak to a number of groups since launching my business, and although it’s become less painful the more I do it, I could sure use some tips to present my ideas “with confidence and passion” as well as “body language, vocal variety, managing jitters, and staying attuned to [my] audience.”

Victoria University in the University of Toronto held a workshop earlier this week called Being An Introvert in an Extrovert’s World, which addressed “the difficulties introverts encounter in university and provide tips for overcoming them, and for discovering the strengths that introverts bring to the table.” What a fabulous idea! Going to university or college can be quite an overwhelming experience, especially for residents of smaller communities who may be living in a big city away from their friends and family for the first time, and even more so if they are also introverts. It’s great to see that someone recognizes this challenge and is actually doing something to help. Having a better understanding that introversion doesn’t have to be a liability will continue to be beneficial as they leave the academic world to begin their careers.