If Networking Makes You Anxious, Try This

A lot of people experience social anxiety, but it disproportionately impacts young people. If this is something you struggle with personally, there are a few tools you can use to help ease your nerves in unfamiliar social situations, such as a networking event for work.

• Visualize how things will unfold beforehand. Our brains often don’t know the difference between imagination and reality. If you’ve already walked through the event in your mind, it will be easier to confront in real time.
• Write a script. Create prompts for what you’d like to discuss or share at the event, including questions you’d feel comfortable asking.
• Fuel up properly. Taking supplements or eating vitamin D and magnesium-rich foods several days in advance of an event can help to buffer the stress that your body feels.
• Lower the stakes. Consider attending a panel discussion or lecture — two examples of learning opportunities where you can watch rather than actively participate.

Where your work meets your life. See more from Ascend here.

It’s finally here! Your very first networking event. You’re in the room (or the Zoom) where it happens.