The “five minutes to hang your jacket” trick – The key to Networking for Introverts

If we were to divide people into two broad personality traits, 60% would be extroverts, and the remaining 40% would be introverts.

For the outgoing 60%, the stream of holiday events is a platform for creating new connections, and getting a head start on business for the new year.

For the other 40%, networking can be a nightmare.

This nightmare is filled with people making small talk, asking you about current projects they don’t know much about, and making every effort possible to pull “unnecessary” connections out of thin air. HORRIBLE.

The description above comes from the perspective of an introvert. The truth is that these “unnecessary” connections are essential to business growth.

As an extrovert, that tends to act shy, I have collected some useful pointers.

• Bring a buddy!

You don’t always have to go at it alone – having a buddy can make large events much less intimidating.

• Smile

You don’t always have to initiate—but if you’re hiding against the wall with your arms crossed over your chest, you’re not giving off a very approachable vibe, either. So try to relax, smile, and look as warm and casual as you can – no one knows the difference between fake casual and real casual.

• Prepare

In your business, what is your current long- and short-term goals. Bring your attention away from how terrifying this crowd is and focus on what your intentions are for this event.

If you leave feeling like you have become closer to achieving your goals, the networking has paid off.

• The “five minutes to hang your jacket” trick

If introverts want to survive a night of networking, the hanging of your jacket is the MOST useful tool. Proceed slowly and confidently. If you pull the “five minutes to hang your jacket” trick off successfully, you’ll walk out this networking event hungry for more connections.     

When you arrive, slowly approach the coat hangers. The next 5 minutes will set the tone for the rest of the event.

• Be the hero: we all know that finding a hanger can sometimes be a task. Locate 2 hangers and wait until someone arrives. The most important part in this is that you smile and act like it is no big deal to be passing off this pre-located hanger. Introduce yourself!
• Make an important business call: this is a personal favorite. This gives you the opportunity to call someone that you’re willingly making conversation with, giving the illusion that you’re comfortable with being social. My father always appreciates these calls. Remember, wave and smile at people as they pass you.
• Look around: Keep an eye on the crowd. Who are the people you should be targeting? Pick one person and make it your goal to talk with them before you leave.
• Search jacket pockets: If you’re desperate to fill the time, look for something that you undoubtedly don’t have.

If introverts want to survive a night of networking, the hanging of your jacket is the MOST useful tool. Proceed slowly and confidently. If you pull the “five minutes to hang your jacket” trick off successfully, you’ll walk out this networking event hungry for more connections.