Networking for Non-Networking Types

For some, networking is fun and easy. For others it's a chore. If you are one of the people whose personality type makes it difficult to network well, you need to find strategies that will help. Don't worry that there's anything wrong with you, some people just aren't all that social, and some are shy. But that doesn't mean you're excused from networking. Networking is too important to neglect especially if you are a freelancer, or if you are looking for a new job(s). Listed below are some ways that may help the non-networker to learn how to make those important contacts.

The Internet is a boon to all of us who are networking. Make sure you have a website to showcase your talents. It can be a simple one-page site that introduces you, outlines your areas of expertise, and your career goals. Add your email address so that people can contact you. If you have samples of your work to show off, add extra pages to your site or links so that prospective employers and customers can take a look. Be sure your site is attractive and appropriate for the type of business you are in. Don't use flash intros and other effects, they tend to slow down load time and can irritate.

You also need a killer business card. It should be simple and clean, but eye-catching enough so that people will remember to pull it out when they need the kind of services you offer. Make sure your web address is included on it. How do you get your card into peoples hands? Well, that's the hard part for non-networkers. You have to get out there and do it. Try to meet a new person everyday, and use your card as part of how you introduce yourself. You can join local business groups that have regular meetings, too. For the times you have to go to meetings, you will simply have to put on your smile and firm up your handshake and say hi to everyone you meet. You can even practice a few sentences about what you do. Once a conversation begins you can answer questions about your work and ask potential customers about what they need. Once you practice, it won't be so hard the next time.

Some home businesses and freelancers benefit from having a marketing brochure. This is good for some but not all, so test the waters before you spend a fortune having thousands printed. Make certain they are eye-catching, and the information is presented well. A brochure should outline what you can do to make your potential clients life easy, more productive and more profitable.