Most people don’t enjoy networking. Meeting new people, putting yourself out there, and making small talk—even the most extroverted real estate agent can get burned out. It’s an essential part of your business, and you can’t just quit. But the good news is that you can learn to love networking. You just need to reframe your attitude.
Give Instead of Take
You have unique insight and experience. No matter whether you’re just starting out or an expert in the field, you have a lot to offer the world. So don’t approach networking events as a place where you’re powerless and have nothing to give—a place where you’re asking people to help you.
Instead, show up with the attitude that you’re there to help others. That mindset helps you feel less like you’re promoting yourself and more like you’re becoming part of a community.
Remember Your “Why”
Why are you networking? Well, the bottom line is that you want to grow your business, right? You’ll meet potential clients or other professionals who can help you get ahead. That’s pretty motivating, but you can take it a step further.
Remember why you wanted to be a real estate professional in the first place. Focus on the things you love about your job and the lifestyle it provides, and then remind yourself that networking is an essential part of it. Keep your “why” at the top of your mind when faced with a business task you dread—it might not make networking any more enjoyable, but at least you’ll know it’s for a good cause.
Opportunity Mindset
If you start out with a negative mindset, you’ll be rewarded with poor results. For example, if you treat networking as a chore that you have to force yourself to get through, you won’t get as much benefit as someone who stays curious and open.
Before attending an event or following up on a potential connection, remind yourself that networking is an opportunity to learn, explore, and grow. You never know who you might meet or where a new connection might lead.
Find Common Ground
For many people, the worst part about networking is having to chitchat with strangers. Introverts dread making small talk, and most people don’t like the idea that they have to “sell” themselves or promote their business.
So take the self-promotion off the table and pay real attention to the people you meet instead. If you can find something in common with them, you’ll have common ground on which to build a stronger connection.
