What Happens if You’re Sitting Next to the Shy People?

Continuing our series of “What happens if you’re sitting next to…..” detailing what kinds of people you end up sitting with at a networking event, and what to do about it.

The Shy People

At this table, no one will make eye contact with you much less introduce themselves. They look uncomfortable, as if someone forced them under threat of a beating if they did not come. Reluctant to speak or make eye contact, you may begin to feel uncomfortable yourself or even blame yourself for other people acting shy.

First, realize it is not your fault. Shy people tend to cluster together for emotional safety. If enough shy people take up a table, no one has to talk, but everyone feels they got the required networking event taken care of. Coaxing the shy ones out of the shell they come in can be difficult, but very rewarding if you manage to get them talking. Shy people do a lot more thinking than talking, so they will have new perspectives on ideas you may not have thought of.

Also, they may be quiet, but when they do give a referral, it’s heard loud and clear by anyone they tell.