48.

Overcome Your Shyness

If you're saying, “I could never do this. Ellen will know what I'm up to!” or, “I'm too shy. I could never approach someone that way,” my answer is one word: contribution. By now, you have a good sense of what you offer people in the workplace—and a sound bite that articulates it. Remember: You have something to contribute to Ellen. By giving her a better idea of what you offer, you're doing her—or someone she knows—a real service. Once she knows what you're about, her response may well be, “Where have you been all my life?” Your shyness deprives her of something of value that she can use.

I'm suggesting you shift your view of networking, perhaps as much as 180 degrees. Networking is about being of service to others and sharing your gifts with them—and you'll ultimately be among the beneficiaries.