I don’t like going to big parties, meetings or places where I don’t know people.
It is not that I don’t like people, just that I think I’m genetically shy. Once I’m at an event or a party or a large meeting, I have the best time of all. It is getting there that is always a challenge.
Funny part is that I speak at many major conventions and meetings each year. Hundreds of people are fine with me, but when I go to a cocktail party, I have a hard time walking up to people to start a conversation.
That’s why Twitter is a safe haven for me and a chance to meet so many interesting people. Here’s how I do it:
1. If someone recommends a friend on #FollowFriday, I’ll click on them and read their bio. If we have something in common, I’ll tweet them and mention it. Many people recommended @dave_carpenter because he’s a great speaker. We tweeted and next time he’s in Miami we’re getting together.
2. I can ask questions on Twitter, and people come out of the blue to help me. For instance, I asked about things to do in Philadelphia during my visit now in March. @ErnieSchell told me that I have to see the Barnes Foundation has an amazing art collection and will soon be moving. I have my tickets in my purse now.
3. Also talk about my hopes, dreams, what I’m reading…and mentioned I’d like to do a business related cruise, maybe about marketing and gather the best speakers, trainers together to help businesses, small and large. Who piped up that they might help me?
A great guy, @theflaggagency who handle cruises. Who knows maybe Chuck and I will do it in the Fall. (let me know if you want to come: @loisgeller
So, while I’ve always said that Twitter increases your luck by expanding your network of people and possibilities…I also admit it is great for us shy people too!
LOL this is so true! I am pretty much an introvert but come out of my shell and love engaging people on twitter. I am finding that is translating to my off line life too more and more.
Hi Madison,
I am glad you’re coming out of your shell and Twitter is helping you do that in your “off line” world too. I received about a dozen direct messages from people who told me the same thing.
They’re saying that they met someone on Twitter and set up an appointment with them…and did some business, became friends, one man told me he met someone to fix up with his cousin. So it makes networking easier.
Thank you for your comment! I’ll follow you, if you tell me your Twitter name.
Although I am not shy, I am astounded by the generosity and friendliness of the Twitter community. It is a breath of fresh air. Lois, with the help of “Those Who Twitter”, you may actually realize those dreams of yours. The best of luck!
I think you’ve hit on a great point here Lois. I’d certainly describe myself as a quiet, studious type who would rather avoid too much socialising. However, I know that no matter how well anyone uses Twitter, nothing beats meeting people face-to-face.
What I do find Twitter very useful for though, is to help find out who it’s worth talking to. Not just from a business perspective, but also on a more general ‘getting on with people’ level. As a prime example, last night I went to an event where I had never met anyone there in the flesh before. But by knowing a small group via Twitter I was easily able to have a good night with good company – and for once in my life, I didn’t say too much about work. Result.
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