Ep99: David JP Fisher Helps Introverts Navigate Networking in the 21st Century

Ep99 Podcast Show Notes

About David Fisher

David J.P. Fisher (D. Fish) is a speaker, coach, and best-selling author of Networking in the 21st Century: Why Your Network Sucks and What to Do About It. Building on 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur and sales professional, he combines nuanced strategy and real-world tactics to help professionals become more effective, efficient, and happy. As the president of RockStar Consulting, he works with individuals and organizations to develop more effective networking, sales, and entrepreneurial skills. He lives in Evanston, IL – next to a huge cemetery, which helps him appreciate the value of every day.

Key Conversation Points

Being open to others’ observations about you
Accepting the introverted side of yourself
Ignoring negative internal voices
Prioritizing an action daily
Owning your material, no matter how good or bad you perceive it to be
Approaching networking in a holistic fashion
Showing genuine interest in others
Taking things step by step
Networking with prospects and peers
Connecting your networking efforts with your business goals
Finding the most appropriate setting for networking

Detailed Conversation Highlights

David considered himself an extrovert until a comment about him being an introvert with good social skills from an acquaintance forced him to reconsider his views. His work as a performer and his love of interaction with others caused him to believe he was an extrovert. Upon further introspection, he realized that although he enjoyed being around people, that it was ultimately draining. Now, he considers himself an introvert with ambivert tendencies. When it comes to accomplishing a lofty goal or working on an involved project, it is important to resist psyching yourself out. Many people possess the ability to reason their way out of something before even giving it an honest attempt.

The best course to cope is to ignore negative thoughts and make a deliberate effort to work at least a little toward your goal every day. It is a tactic used by many successful introverts such as Jerry Seinfeld. It is one of the best methods to create a feeling of investment, and allows one to realize that completion in itself is a victory. It can be extremely helpful to break a goal down into smaller steps, as opposed to taking it out all at once. A beneficial shift in perspective for introverts would be looking at networking as relational instead of transactional, as it gives people a chance to cultivate more meaningful relationships. However, nothing can be achieved if you don’t show up. It is also imperative not to waste time and energy networking with the wrong people. Attend events or talk to others who are part of the key demographics for your offerings.

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