You don't need an outgoing personality to connect well with people

This post came out from The Straits Times (4 Oct 2014)
Title - Don't be a wallflower

Some pointers that I've got are:
1. Prepare your 30 second elevator pitch
2. Ask sincere questions about the other person
3. Politely excuse yourself if you don't want to remain in the conversation

On Prepare your 30 second elevator pitch

• Take some time before the meeting and think about how you would like others to perceive you. Write short and simple sentences about your role in your company, and what the company does.
• Rehearse this in front of the mirror as often as you like. You can also run this by a trusted co-worker for constructive feedback.

On Ask sincere questions about the other person

• You can consider to cut the chase and ask the person you are trying to connect with some questions about himself. Questions can include - How long have you been in this business/ industry, What sort of business referrals is he looking for, What is the best or most challenging part of his job. 
• Remember, you can be yourself. Ask questions that will help you get to know the other person better, and be genuine about it. 

On Politely excuse yourself if you don't want to remain in the conversation

• Remind yourself that you are at the event for a purpose - to seek out new opportunities and establish mutually beneficial business relationships. You are definitely not there to entertain others.
• If you find yourself getting bored, or do not have any interest in what the other party is saying, thank him for sharing and you are keen on meeting other people in the room. 

Yours,
Something Small Thinking Big