I'm not that good in networking. You know, standing at a reception or release-party and talk to people who might be 'valuable' to you. I don't have problems to talk to audiences, but I'm an introvert and a lot of social interactions are quite demanding for me. About a year ago I was at the Septimius International Movie Awards in Amsterdam (because I was the comedy writer for the hostess) and I talked to a tv-host and after a brief but nice conversation we exchanged numbers. The host saw my work because he was there in the audience as well. I never thought I would here something back.
Until yesterday, when I got a call: 'Frank, I need you for some screenwriting for my program.' So, eventhough I'm not that good in networking... pushing yourself to do it a little bit, it helps! ;)
3 people like this
Impressive dude. Well done and great story. Being shy is tough. I grew up with awful social anxiety.
3 people like this
Congratulations from a fellow introvert :-)
3 people like this
Congratulations, Frank Van Der Meijden! Hope the call leads to great opportunities for you and the TV host!
"So, even though I'm not that good in networking... pushing yourself to do it a little bit, it helps!" That helped me break outta my introvert shell online and in person. Another thing that helped was finding common things to talk about with people (movies, sports, hobbies, etc.). I search their Stage 32 profiles and other social media accounts to find things we have in common.
3 people like this
I can relate. Networking, especially in that public kind of way is tough. Props for making a cool connection through it all!
3 people like this
That's great news Frank Van Der Meijden ...and encouraging to us fellow introverts! Congratulations!
3 people like this
I love it. I hope it inspires you to keep pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. It's cliche, but it truly is the secret to personal growth. Keep it up!
3 people like this
Great advice! There have been some good blog posts here for natworking as an introvert but its still great to hear these stories of fellow people experiencing it.