top of page
Search

𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗥𝗼𝗼𝗺𝘀

  • Writer: Benjamin
    Benjamin
  • Aug 5
  • 3 min read

Updated: Aug 10

Building Authentic Connections in Crowded Rooms

What if the secret to powerful networking isn't meeting more people, but connecting with the right ones in ways that energize you?

 

With hesitant steps, I would enter crowded rooms filled with strangers.

 

The rising blood pressure, fidgeting hands, and the sensation that the room was swirling, well, I assumed these symptoms were simply the cost of entry.

 

As a founder, I felt compelled to meet new people at all costs, meeting many strangers while quickly trading elevator pitches and contact information.

 

As an introvert, socializing in crowds never felt comfortable or productive.

 

My approach to connections has evolved, and I shifted from trying to act like others to proactively choosing when, where, and how long to engage. This year, I've been organizing and facilitating numerous events, and I'd like to share what I've learned.

 

 

Come Prepared. I used to think success meant meeting as many people as possible. Now, I research who will attend and focus on those I want to meet.

 

Act Purposefully. I used to join events based on the schedule. Now, I select events based on my interests, ensuring I'll have one thing in common with others.

 

Fewer is More. I thought attending more events would build my network. Now, I limit myself to 1 or 2 events weekly, causing me to connect more meaningfully.

 

Find Small Settings. I used to assume larger events were better. Now, I prefer smaller events that allow for better focus and conversations.

 

Strive for Value. I used to judge an event based on the number of people I met. Now, I strive to give generously, like making an introduction or sharing a resource, and I feel better about myself.


"The currency of real networking is not greed but generosity."

— Keith Ferrazzi

 

Go Deeper. I used to struggle with small talk, asking generic questions. Now, I ask meaningful questions about passions, experiences, and plans. Like an extrovert who thrives in groups, I get excited by going deeper.

 

Seek the One. I used to awkwardly insert myself into groups. Now, I seek one-on-one conversations that are often more genuine and less performative.


“Networking is more quality, and less quantity.

It’s better to form a solid connection with one

new person, than a liquid connection with ten.”

– Jarod Kintz

 

Remain Authentic. I used to "act" like an extrovert, trying my best to smile and agree whenever possible. Now, I listen attentively, speak when I have something interesting to add, and move on when a conversation has run its course.

 

Embrace Self-Compassion. I used to ignore my discomfort and "push through." Now, my goal is to meet one interesting person, then I'm free to leave. With less pressure, I often stay longer.



In the end, meaningful networking isn't about collecting the most contacts or pretending to be someone else. It's about showing up as your authentic self and building lasting relationships that energize rather than drain you.


Success comes when you leave with even one genuine connection, improve someone's life, or reinforce self-compassion, creating real value for yourself and others.

 

---------------------------------


I wrote this post with AI editing. Photos by Leah Friedman.



What if the quietest person in the room is the one that changes the world?


Build Scale Grow solves problems for fast-growing startups, specializing in Social Impact, EdTech, and Health Tech and focusing on Introverted Founders.


OUR RESOURCES



  • Scale: Reach Your Peak lets leaders learn the best methods and practical solutions to scale in just five minutes. Choose from among 130+ topics.




  • The New York Tech CFO Group is a free and informal forum for over 200 finance leaders to share insights on strategic planning, benchmarking, and financial solutions.


 

 
 
 

Comments

LinkedIn.webp

© Build Scale Grow, LLC

bottom of page