You don’t know need to know sh*t about sports to get that today’s a big deal to football lovers. You don’t need to be a crazy workaholic to understand that today can also provide you a major business opportunity. And, you don’t need to be an extrovert to know how to network effectively.
Let me put you on game.
Yes, I’m talking about networking, folks. The dreaded ‘N’ word us fellow introverts HATE. Ugh, you mean to tell me I have to talk to someone about myself for an X amount of time and make connections with people I don’t know and listen to them speak about topics I barely care about?
Well, it doesn’t have to be that way.
Today, over 100 million Americans is somewhere watching the game (or the commercials or the half-time show lol). I’d advise checking what people in your industry are doing to celebrate the big game. Are there planned local happy hour events on Facebook? Is there someone you know throwing a viewing party at their home? If not, ask someone you know in your social network to see what they’re doing.
You wouldn’t think as much, but a superbowl shindig is the perfect time and place to network because everyone is excited and amped to watch the game. It might feel hard to initiate a conversation, but once you’re in the building, it will be much easier. You can break the ice by asking a question about something relevant such as who are rooting for? You don’t need to be a football genius, just know enough to strike up a small conversation. Research a little bit about the teams that are playing so you can have at least two anecdotes ready for conversation. For instance, this year both teams’ uniform colors are red. Good luck keeping track of who’s who. This in itself could make for a comical time. And if you need a little social support, bring a friend.
The other point I want to mention is that networking doesn’t have to be all 100% business – in fact, the best networking strategies hardly are. You’ll be surprised to know how much business is run by personal connections and relationships. Allow yourself to naturally connect with others by showing off your listening skills (introverts are great at this!), and folks with naturally jump at the opportunity to connect professionally (especially if that person is an extrovert). Believe me lol.
So don’t be that person who rambles on and on about your business or hopes and dreams as an entrepreneur at a football party. Be your regular self, make genuine conversation, and then slyly mention your business. You might find someone in a similar industry, or hell, you might find your next client.
Networking doesn’t have to be this huge, daunting task and it doesn’t always have to exist at “networking mixers”. Networking can happen any and everywhere, where you least expect it. You’re an entrepreneur, so your business is more than a job – it’s a way of life. When you carry that motto and mindset with you wherever you go, you’re bound to make meaningful connections, introvert or not.
Enjoy the game… or the halftime show…or the commercials…or the appetizers! Or ALL OF THE ABOVE! Whatever floats your boat.
To more money in our pockets,
Chika
P.S. Are you tuning into the Superbowl shenanigans? The bay area, where I live, will be turning up to the 49ers so you know there will be some serious fandom happening. I’ll be out n about watching the game and will be sharing on IG stories. Tune into the madness. Follow me @chikaobihcpa
