As a member’s guest, I went to a small business owners’ networking event for the first time last night. I have made new contacts at various events over the years, but I never went to one specifically to network. I avoided it because I thought it would be too hard — too hard to introduce myself to strangers, too hard to sell the services and talents I have to offer.
What I found instead was a room full of people who had the same purpose — and the same issues. So it was just like the cliche about jumping into a pool – once I was in the water, I was fine. Yes, I still felt self-conscious and I did fumble my words in the first few conversations, but I gradually began to notice that some people in the room were clearly uncomfortable (i.e., profuse sweating), but others were “working the room” with ease and purpose. I took comfort from the former, but decided to pay more attention to the latter. I decided if they could do it, I could too.
The result is I exchanged business cards with enough people to feel I had made a good effort, and signed up to join the organization. I still need to perfect my “elevator pitch” for a smoother introduction, but I’m looking forward to the next event! If, like me, you’ve been in avoiding mode, take it from a champion procrastinator — jump on in, the water’s just fine.
