I encourage my Coaching clients to socialize (aka network) as an important strategy for job hunting. And at the same time, I realize how hard that can be, particularly for those on the introverted side of the continuum. I remind them that in their discomfort they’d find lots of company. Maybe even half the people in the room. I love this illustration by Chaz Hutton.
I was painfully shy as a child. But I have grown into a fairly social person. I have to do a good bit of networking and schmoozing for my current job. I find these events are easier the more I do them and the more regularly I do them. I give myself permission to leave if I want to and not beat myself up if I didn’t get anything immediate out of them. That helps me a lot!
One of my survival techniques is to set an achievable goal, e.g. I want to hand out 3 business cards before I go home.
This is hilarious.
I remember going to a party (that was held outside) with my dog, just so I’d have someone to talk to.