Niamh shares her honest struggle with networking and the simple, practical steps she uses to feel more confident at in-person events. Learn how to manage your nerves, spot welcoming groups, and build connections without feeling awkward.

1. Pause and Take It In: When you arrive, take a moment to look around, get a drink, and observe the room to ease yourself in before you feel pressured to speak to anyone.

2. Find the “Flaw” and the “Familiar”: Remind yourself that the situation and people are human by finding small imperfections (the “flaw”) and common ground with others (the “familiar”) to feel less alone and more settled.

3. Approach “Rainbows, Not Clouds”: Look for open semi-circles of people (rainbows) as they are more welcoming than closed clusters (clouds), which look like they are having a private conversation.

4. Be the Rainbow: If you can’t find a welcoming group, stand in an open stance, make eye contact, and smile gently—you’ll be inviting to others looking for someone to talk to.

5. Focus on Learning About Others: When you start a conversation, focus on asking for their name and what they are discussing; concentrating on them rather than planning your own response reduces anxiety.

If you struggle with networking and found these tips helpful, Niamh would love to hear from you. Get in touch on LinkedIn or via email and let her know what you would add to these tips, or if you’d like a more in-depth episode on other elements of networking.

Share this episode with a fellow nervous networker—you might just help them have a better workday, too!

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