Alright, you're a shy number-cruncher who's decided to venture into the wild networking world, huh? First, I commend your bravery. Let's face it: waltzing up to random people, starting small talk, and forging lifelong connections might not sound as fun as hitting the slot machine…
But picture yourself at QB Connect, casually mingling with industry bigwigs, tech wizards, and soon-to-be buddies. With these three simple tips, you'll be ready to conquer the challenge.
Tip #1: Set Clear Goals
While you're making your way to Fabulous Las Vegas, ask yourself, "What's the grand plan here?" Do you want to cozy up to the apps you've been utilizing? Or perhaps you fancy teaming up with fellow professionals for some co-firming opportunities? Maybe you're just on a quest to add to your network.
Once you have a goal, you have a purpose. And you know who benefits the most from this? The introverts among us might find mingling with strangers a tad daunting. But knowing exactly who you want to connect with transforms you from shy and quiet to confident and ready to connect. Seek out people doing what you're doing and sit by them in a session to share color commentary or go grab a coffee. Embrace your goal and let the mingling magic begin!
Bonus tip(s): Listen, it's perfectly fine to be a fan, but let's not go 100% full-on fan mode, cool?? But it’s okay to stop someone *doing big things* like the 2023 Top 100 ProAdvisors and tell them how much they mean to you and the community. Maybe even say what it was they said or wrote that gained them YOU as a follower. Trust me, they'll appreciate the shoutout, and you might even make their day! So, go on, spread the love, and remember, no autographs or squealing allowed.
Tip #2: Prepare Talking Points
Initiating conversations can be intimidating. Prepare a list of talking points or questions related to accounting, industry trends, or topics of interest that you can use as conversation starters. Think of it as your conversational safety net. Oh, and don't forget the classic elevator pitch—a brief intro about you and your work. Practice it until it rolls off your tongue smoother than butter. Trust me, it'll boost your confidence when diving into new social waters. But you know what, if you go off-script, ask a simple question about them or their business and take a moment to listen and let them carry the conversation.
Bonus tip: Connect with your newfound pals on LinkedIn! It's like opening a virtual window into each other's worlds. Did you know you have a QR code to your profile? You can download it and have it easily accessible to share with others. And here's the magic ingredient: keep the connection alive even after the conference buzz wears off. Dive into the digital realm by commenting, reacting, and sharing their posts. Meet on Zoom for a morning coffee chat, or an afternoon happy hour to get to know each other better. Who knows, your professional bond might blossom into something extraordinary!
Tip #3: Find Small Groups
Instead of trying to navigate large, intimidating crowds, focus on smaller, more intimate networking opportunities. Look for workshops, Roundtable discussions, or smaller breakout sessions where you can engage in more meaningful conversations. It’s easier to interact with others and build rapport in smaller groups and you are often dealing with things in real time instead of yet another powerpoint presentation.
Bonus tip: Don't forget to carve out some "me time" and recharge as needed. Social situations can be energy-draining for introverts, so be sure to plan short breaks during the conference for a little breather. Use this downtime to reflect on your interactions, jot down notes about the interesting people you've met, and fully recharge your mental batteries for the next networking adventure.
Make the most of the conference by attending sessions you want to attend, rather than just any session that fits your schedule. And hey, don't be shy about indulging in a midday nap – it's a personal recharge ritual I swear by, even at conferences.
The Bottom Line
Successful networking is about creating authentic connections and adding value to others in your industry. Introverted accountants – your superpowers, like those epic listening skills and profound insights, can be your winning hand in a networking world usually run by extroverts.
So, just one conversation at a time, and watch your professional network flourish. With practice, you'll find that networking becomes not just a task to conquer but an opportunity to grow, learn, and excel in your accounting journey.
Richard Roppa-Roberts
Richard Roppa-Roberts
One minute, he's a forward-thinking problem-solver. The next, he's a technically minded marketer. All in a day’s work for Richard Roppa-Roberts, The Intellectual Handyman and ProAdvisor® Advisor at the helm of Roundtable Labs and Quasar Cowboy. He's driven by one core belief: working collaboratively is the key to a better business. This belief is the backbone of the thriving Roundtable Labs community he's been cultivating since 2015. And it's also at the heart of his highly sought-after "mission-control" style coaching of Quasar Cowboy