Networking Tips for Introverted Authors
Written by Megan Crawford
Have you ever caught yourself thinking:
“Networking is overwhelming.”
“Everyone else is great at networking. I’m just so awkward.”
“I can’t network. I get anxious and don’t know what to say.”
“I hate talking about myself.”
(Insert a million other negative networking thoughts, here.)
Dump All About Me, Volume-Based Networking
Maybe you won’t tell yourself those negative things if you lean into networking from a different perspective.
If I asked you, “Do you have genuine, mutually beneficial relationships with other writers who know what it’s like to go through writer’s block, imposter syndrome, massive editing rounds, and querying?” you’d likely say yes, right?
And if I asked you, “Do you want more of those types of relationships?” you’d also likely say yes, right?
Networking doesn’t have to be standing awkwardly in crowded rooms looking for the perfect thing to say about yourself (perfect is so overrated). Or about collecting as many business cards, LinkedIn connections, and emails as humanly possible.
Welcome to a more authentic networking view, friend. One where you invest time and energy to build genuine, supportive relationships with other authors. One where networking feel like listening, and less like a painful transaction.
Writers Need to Network
In today’s creative landscape, writing is often seen as a solitary pursuit, emphasizing individual achievement. The reality is, writing flourishes not only in solitude, but also through creative connection. Networking isn’t just a professional buzzword; for writers, it’s key to unlocking collaborative creativity.
Shift Your Networking Perspective
Maybe you hate networking because the world has taught you that ‘networking is how you get someone else to do something for you.’ But that’s not your style – and it’s not a style that tends to work well long-term for anyone, to be honest.
What if you think about networking as ‘how can I support someone who might be interested in supporting me in return?’ This mindset fosters a team of collaborators intent on supporting and amplifying each other’s goals. For introverts (like me!) this mindset helps transform networking from a daunting social task into a personal opportunity to really get to know someone.
5 Networking Tips for Introverted Authors
Networking is easier when you play to your strengths, pregame areas that tend to feel overwhelming, and plan (yes, even for you, pantsters.) Read on for tips to help you approach networking from a new space:
Tip 1: Identify Your Preferred Networking Style
When are you at your best engaging with others? Do you prefer:
Intimate, in-person settings where you can make deeper connections
Larger, in-person diverse gatherings where you can gain inspiration
Online spaces like social media and virtual get togethers
Tip 2: Give Yourself Permission to Connect
Over time, repeating self-defeating thoughts (I’m awkward and awful at this. I can’t network.) may have created a mental roadblock of sorts that makes you step back from connecting with people when you think it’s networking. Rewrite the script. Tell yourself you have permission to step forward. Then, choose networking activities that align with your personal comfort levels and preferences. You can always opt-out if it becomes overwhelming.
Tip 3: Plan Networking Activities Strategically
Have a plan before you engage in conversation. That doesn’t mean you need to write down every word (but if having notes helps you, do it!)
Start by planning out your networking goal. Are you networking to
Learn
Connect with others
Sell something
Once you have a goal set, take time to think about how you would introduce yourself related to your goal. Also think through questions and topics that relate to your goal.
Tip 4: Make Every Connection Feel Appreciated
Each interaction has value. Celebrate what each encounter adds to your writing journey. Remember Maya Angelou’s words: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Make each connection you meet feel appreciated. That’s the kind of impression that lasts.
Tip 5: You’re Awesome, Just as You Are
That’s all. Just didn’t want you to forget it.
Free “Networking for Creative Writers” Workshop
Want to explore networking as a writer and learn tips to help you map out your dream network team? Join us in-person for ‘Networking for Creative Writers,’ a free workshop on Thurs. Feb. 27 at 1951@SkySong in Scottsdale. It starts at 6, ends at 7:30 p.m., and will be filled with area authors looking to connect. Learn more about the workshop and RSVP on POP’s Meetup.
You’ll learn how to:
· Network without feeling imposter-y
· Define authentic networking goals
· Lean into the phrase ‘How can I help?’
· Map out your ‘dream network team’
· Find networking opportunities you enjoy
If you host an area writing or critique group, or you have access to a message board at a local library, coffee shop, or writerly hangout, click the image at left to download a printable version of our event flyer to share.
Thank you so much for helping us get word out about our free programming for area authors!
The Beauty of Authenticity
This workshop provides a supportive, interactive space to transform networking from a challenging, anxiety-filled task into an enriching adventure based on your authentic self. Because you’re pretty awesome, and you want to help other people succeed. Putting that energy out into the world just might come back to you in surprising ways.
Find all of POP’s events on our Meetup page!
ABOUT MEGAN CRAWFORD
MEGAN CRAWFORD IS A ROMANCE NOVELIST WHO MIGRATED FROM NEW JERSEY TO ARIZONA. HER PARROT AND #1 SIDEKICK, REX, MADE THE TREK WITH HER AND HE’S WRITING HIS MEMOIR, A TALE OF TWO WINGS (JUST KIDDING). YOU’LL OFTEN FIND MEGAN AT WRITING EVENTS ACROSS THE VALLEY. FOLLOW HER JOURNEY @CRAWFORDBOOKNOOK AND ONLINE AT MEGANCRAWFORDWRITES.COM.