Do You Have a Fear of Networking?

Fear is a necessary part of life. Can you imagine what would have happened if our ancestors weren't afraid of fire? Or cliffs? We might not be here!

Our fears do protect us; however, they can also hurt us by keep us stuck. What's interesting about your networking fears is that they're not just about networking. They're the same fears that are part of your life - always. How do you overcome fears? Don't bother trying. Instead-identify them, accept them, and create solutions that will turn the fears into an exciting adventure. As Susan Jeffers says, "Feel the fear and do it anyway."

Most of us are able to discover enough benefits, enough "whys" to make networking worthwhile for us. Below is a list of common fears that coaches hear from their clients. Place a check mark near YOUR fears (or add your own).

1. I'll draw a blank and not know what to say.

2. I'm not _(fill in the blank)_ (smart enough, successful enough, etc.)

3. I'm too _(fill in the blank)_ (fat, skinny, ugly, etc.)

4. It's one thing to do introductions, but how do I maintain the conversation, keep it lively?

5. I'm afraid I'll sound pushy or alienate people.

6. I feel phony and inauthentic.

7. My feet hurt when I stand in heels too long.

8. I'll say something to "stick my foot in my mouth."

9. It's impossible to break into groups already formed.

10. I'm an introvert.

11. People drain me.

12. I won't have enough stamina to be "on" for the whole event.

13. Networking is "boring."

14. Why go? It will be SOS (Same Old Stuff).

15. Strangers will think I'm manipulating them when they discover I'm looking for business.

16. It scares the living daylights out of me!

Description of Networking

To interact or engage in informal communication with others for mutual assistance or support. The American Heritage