And recognize yourself
Type 1: The Networker
Mission: Meeting people
The networker has an important goal; to bind interesting people to him. The networker does this largely online, but with just as much flair he [or she, but that reads so awkwardly] makes contact in real life. For the networker, there is no difference between digital and old-fashioned, so from eyeball to eyeball. At conferences, the networker mixes the offline circuit with the online world at lightning speed. LinkedIn is his most loyal assistant. The networker did his homework well, he already made digital contact at his kitchen table. Once at the conference, he sits in a prominent place and asks pertinent questions. During the breaks, you spot him to your left, chatting pleasantly in a group. A second later you hear his roaring laugh from the middle. The networker always has a stack of business cards in his inside pocket. Or his handbag.
What can you learn from the networker? First of all; a wallflower is rarely noticed. Train yourself to strike up light-hearted conversations. On the fringes of the group you will find the like-minded and the latecomers. Start there and move cautiously to the middle. And now finally hand out your business cards.
Do you recognize yourself in the networker? Bravo. But beware of arrogance, do not overplay your hand. The Great Network Game demands precision.
