A SURVIVAL GUIDE TO NETWORKING

摘要

I have participated in activities such as speaking to large and small groups, routinely meeting new people in unfamiliar environments, making cold calls, working through confrontational situations and socializing with strangers. None of these roles and activities is out of the ordinary for a safety professional, but they all can be emotionally stressful for an introverted one.An introvert is an individual who prefers minimally stimulating environments. Unlike their extroverted counterparts, those who identify as introverts tend to feel drained after socializing and may regain their energy by spending time alone. I am an introverted safety professional who has found success in the field by embracing this trait. Throughout my career, I have relied on some coping skills that help me when working through some of the traditional introverted characteristics that can present challenges to engaging in social situations. Three factors that have helped me get through these tough moments are 1) preparation; 2) support community; and 3) personal reflection time.