This confidence tips post was sponsored by Gillette Venus as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.
This post has been something I’ve considered writing for over a year now and I’m glad that it’s finally happening now. I’ve mentioned a few times on my Instastories now how I get nervous before going to networking events and was surprised at how this resonated with so many of you all too! I recently started using a Gillette Venus Platinum Extra Smooth Razor that has given me more confidence and new inspiration to write this post!
I’m very much an introvert but one of my personal goals for the last few years has been to network and socialize more, even if it means constantly being outside of my comfort zone. Growing up, I was always shy. My mom has even told me stories of how she would take me to the mall just so I would be comfortable around crowds. As I’ve gotten older I’ve increasingly realized the importance of networking. Whether it’s meeting contacts to advance your career or even just socializing to make new friends, there are so many benefits to being able to put yourself out there and talk with people!
I will be the first to admit that I get anxiety when it comes to attending events on my own when I’m not certain if I’ll know even a single person. I usually have blog events once a week and am also active in a few local Dallas Meetup groups, so opportunities to get out and socialize have become a norm for me. Many times I still give myself pep talks beforehand, so I figured, while inspired by Gillette Venus to look and feel my best, I’d share my tips on what has helped me grow my confidence and network more easily. It’s not easy to put yourself out there when you’re naturally an introvert, but it’s definitely so rewarding!
4 CONFIDENCE TIPS TO NETWORK AS AN INTROVERT
Get Yourself Ready
I always feel my best when I spend some time beforehand taking care of my appearance. I freshen up with a shower, put on a face mask, and make sure that my legs and underarms are cleanly shaven. I always feel more confident when I have smooth skin from a fresh shave. The Gillette Venus Platinum Extra Smooth Razor is what I’ve been using to feel my best – I’m loving it! I first saw it when I was shopping in the Target beauty section and noticed that it had 5 blades (instead of the 3 blades I had been using) to provide an unbeatable extra-close shave. Plus there is a 360˚ Ribbon of Moisture that completely surrounds the blades and releases lubricants when activated by water for enhanced comfort, glide and protection. I definitely notice a difference in the smooth gliding motion thanks to the 360˚ Ribbon of Moisture and have found that I don’t get the minor cuts that I used to around my knees! The razor has a new platinum metallic handle that is perfectly balanced and gives me amazing control with it’s anti-slip texture — I don’t have any issues with gripping the razor even when I’m wet from the shower!
Smile
Smiling when you make eye contact with someone puts everyone at ease. Body language says so much about you and smiling is seriously the easiest way to be more approachable! There’s nothing like feeling comfortable in your own skin and it shows when you have a relaxed, friendly smile.
Besides finding a razor that fits your lifestyle and carrying yourself well, my other top tip would be to stand tall; arms uncrossed, and avoid looking at your phone at all costs. Even though we all have our smartphones on us and it can be an easy retreat when we’re uncomfortable, it also blocks you off from making eye contact with people. For me, as I make an entrance I’ll typically do a quick glance over to see if I know anyone. Then, I’ll see if there’s there’s someplace to grab a drink (even if it’s just a glass of water). For me just having something to hold and sip on helps make a situation less awkward.
with a few blogger friends at last year’s rewardStyle conference
Have “Ice Breaker” Questions Ready
I usually have a couple questions in my back pocket that are good conversation starters. In a more casual setting if I’m trying to talk with a group of girls, complimenting someone on their clothes or makeup is a safe choice and often the other person will have something to say about the topic as well. When I’m networking and talking with other guys, easy conversation topics include asking them about their job (what guy doesn’t love bragging about themselves for a bit?) or if they travel much (not sure why the travel one has worked so well but almost always I get stories about interesting places they’ve been to recently!). And finally, a conversation starter topic that seems to work well for both guys and girls is asking where people are from. I’ve found that people are comfortable sharing this part about themselves and it’s also an easy way to find something that you can both relate to from your past.
Accept Yourself and Own It
And finally, know that you’re probably not alone in feeling nervous! Accept yourself as who you are and share it as if you didn’t have a care in the world. You’d be surprised to find that sometimes just a simple “fake it ’til you make it” attitude will naturally attract others. I’ve found it’s the easiest way to get outside of my head, stop worrying about what other people think, and have a good time! People pick up on doubt so if I ever find that I start second-guessing myself, I remind myself of my goals and my purpose for being there. Then I give myself another 15 minutes, and I’m usually surprised to see that that situation is usually completely different by the end of that time and I’m already feeling more comfortable!
So the next time you get an invite and are debating whether you should go, take these tips with you! And don’t forget, nothing gives you confidence more than feeling put together!
There are so many benefits to being able to put yourself out there and talk with people. Head to Target and let Gillette Venus help you build your confidence and network. There is even a Touch and Learn Display available at Target until 4/22 that you can check out to learn more about the razor!
Now it’s your turn: share your confidence tips on how to put yourself out there!
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Carolyn says
Thanks for sharing these tips! I’m an introvert as well and always find networking events to be intimidating yet necessary!
Cathy says
These are great tips!! It looks like a fun event!
XOXO
Cathy
Lacey Faeh says
Such great advice!
xo
L
A Lacey Perspective
Stephanie says
This post is chalk full of great suggestions! As someone with major social anxiety, networking – or events in general – can be ultra-terrifying. I need all the help I can get, and I can definitely attest to the fact that when I take time to prepare physically and mentally, and feel confident in the way I look, it goes a LONG way! Thanks for sharing!
roxy says
This is the exact razor I use! I swear it is so hard to find a razor that doesn’t cut me up when it’s fresh and then dull quickly. The Venus has been perfection. Great tips on getting ready to socialize — I’m an extrovert and yet I feel so nervous before I go to events with people I don’t know. Funny that.
Laura Leigh says
Great tips gal! I am such an introvert and can definitely use all the help!
xo Laura Leigh
http://www.louellareese.com
Helena Marz says
Thank you for the great advice! I can be shy at times. I will keep this in mind. Love your all red outfit❤️
Nancy Baten says
I don t even go when I have to go alone! Stupid isn t it!
Taylor Mobley says
These are amazing tips. I’m totally an introvert at heart!
Ellen from Ask Away Blog says
I go to a blog conference by myself in September so these tips are gonna be super helpful!
Taylor Aube says
Such a great post with so many helpful tips – thanks so much for sharing!
Liz says
I loved these tips! I’m an introvert too and my main goal for this year is to go to more events and get comfortable networking because it is SUPER important!
Liz
Anna English says
I tend to be an introvert, so these tips are great!
maggie says
Great Tips! It is always important to be yourself and feel confident when networking!
the eye traveler says
Aww, I love these tips! I find that I feel more confident when I’m comfortable with myself and what I wear ;p To be honest, fully accepting oneself is a hard lesson for a lotta ppl but so important.
Candace says
I have been a fan of Gillette ever since I learned how to shave. And I agree, faking it until you make it as far as being confident can get you far!
Life of a Sister says
I couldn’t agree more! If you feel good about yourself, you will act like yourself!
Meghan says
I have mad anxiety and avoid networking events because of this! I go to them on occasion, but it’s always so hard and it’s so draining. Great tips, I will keep them in mind for sure.
Sarah K Tripp says
These are such great tips! Thanks for sharing lady!
Steph says
This is such a great post idea! Love your tips.
xo,
Steph
@trendyinindy || trendyinindy.com
Jasmine Vargas says
loving your tips girl. I especially love the red jumper!!!
Jean | DelightfulRepast.com says
Kileen, another “trick” I’ve used is: take the focus off me. Look around for another introvert and make it your aim to help that person. By the time you’ve chatted with her, learned why she’s there, you can introduce her–and yourself–to someone else. It sort of gets the ball rolling.
kileen says
oh i love this tip! will definitely have to use it next time!
xx,
kileen
sarah lindner says
Some great advice, really. Thank you for the post!
Xoxo
Sarah Lindner
http://www.TheHouseOfSequins.com
Julia Comil says
These are great tips!! Will try them for my next event!
Jessica says
This is really lovely dear, and I couldn’t agree more. A simple smile can go a long way, especially when meeting new people. And yes, accepting yourself is the most important thing.
Jessica | notjessfashion.com
Maureen says
These are great tips! I am an introvert and I get butterflies all over if I have to go somewhere by myself. It also takes a lot of courage not to back out from attending. I do find it easier to talk to someone one on one rather than a group but I do my best to be approachable even if I am not. I do like the idea of holding something even if it’s just water, it’s a good way to keep my hands busy and therefore relax a bit. I guess it’s like chewing gum. It keeps my mind busy elsewhere.
Maureen | http://www.littlemisscasual.com
Teresa says
Thank you for the tips. I’m definitely an introvert as well and I understand how daunting social situations can be at times! Thank you for sharing this with Party in Your PJ’s.
Jann Olson says
Such great tips! Thanks for sharing them with SYC.
hugs,
Jann
Emma says
Thanks for sharing your experience, it’s really appreciated. It is important for each of us to study ourselves, to understand our strengths and weaknesses, in order to know what to work on and how to use it. It is not so easy to understand yourself without outside help. Fortunately, now there are effective tools for this, here you can learn more about what is personality psychology important
Lola Jean says
Your confidence tips are not only practical but also incredibly relatable. I’ve always struggled with networking because of my introverted nature, but your insights have given me a newfound sense of hope.
The idea of setting small, achievable goals for social interactions is brilliant. It makes the process less intimidating, and I can see myself implementing this strategy. Additionally, your emphasis on self-compassion really struck a chord with me. It’s a reminder we all need from time to time.
I also want to share with you useful article – https://calmerry.com/text-therapy/ cause it’s wonderful to know there are professional services available for support, especially for introverts who may find it challenging to open up in person. It’s a great addition to the article and shows your commitment to helping your readers.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom and insights. I’ll definitely be bookmarking this post for future reference. Keep up the fantastic work! 😊👏
Jocelyn Sullivan says
Work for an introvert https://xscholarship.com/ru/20-best-jobs-for-introverts-without-a-degree/ .
Lily Skinner says
Here is an interesting site, there is a lot of different things and on different topics https://www.muckrock.com/.