If you are an introvert, chances are that networking is not your favorite part of the job. However, you don’t have to be an extrovert to connect with colleagues, partners, or donors. The Young Entrepreneur Council gave 10 tips to succeed at networking even if small talk is a big deal: 

1. Focus on one or two questions. Think of two questions that you’d generally want to know about someone, and stick to those. Rather than focus on all the ways the conversation can go, keep it focused rather than open-ended. 

2. Set a goal. Set an achievable expectation for the time of the event (for example, meet three people) and then after you’ve met the goal, then decide how you are feeling. A set number of quality conversations can be better than quantity. 

3. Bring a wingman. Have a networking “wingman” so that you draw others into your circle. Many times, it helps to arrive early to get into a conversation as others are still filtering in. 

4. Connect on social media before the event. You can connect with someone behind a screen and learn more about them, so when you do meet in person, the conversation flows naturally. Start the connection online then build on it in person. 

5. Let your content be king. Networking doesn’t have to be only conferences or events – you can connect and network with people through podcasts, blogs, or videos. Create a community around content and you can focus on what you have in common. 

6. Take it slow. Introverts still enjoy social time, just maybe not in long periods of time.  Look for networking events where you can come and go as you need to, or that are shorter in nature. Any networking is better than none!