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You don't work a room like Austin Powers and you didn't become a finance professional to schmooze. Networking is not taught at university or covered by professional training, yet it's a critical part of our professional lives.

Don't panic. Great networkers aren't always extroverts. While the term "wallflower" has negative connotations, here are 10 tips on how you can use introversion to your advantage and network effectively to stand out.

1. Assess your current network

Create a database of people you know. Think widely. Former classmates, the person you chat to on the ferry, or the person you sometimes work out with at the gym are all people who may need your services. And if they don't need your services, they might know people who do. If you earn their trust, they may be your advocates and recommend you.

2. Stay connected

There's no point having a database of contacts unless you actually contact them and keeping in touch must be ongoing. Changing jobs shouldn't be the only reason to get in touch. Make a point of sending Christmas cards or emails with interesting news about your place of work or area of expertise throughout the year.

3. One-on-one communication is your friend

One-on-one communication is personal and helps to build solid rapport. If you're an introvert, talking to just one person will be much easier than talking to a group. Make a phone call or schedule coffee, lunch or a drink after work. Genuinely ask about the person's work and personal life. Networking is ultimately about building relationships.

4. Sign up to networking events and attend!

Grow your network by attending conferences, alumni functions, or events for professional associations and private clubs. But you do have to show up! At the actual event, relax and grab yourself a drink. Nobody will think it's odd if you approach an individual or group and introduce yourself. Remember people have turned up with the sole purpose of meeting new people.

5. Connections are about quality not quantity

It's not about being the loudest in the room or blowing your own trumpet. It's about getting people to like and trust you. Avoid "working the room". Instead focus on making two or three solid connections. If you didn't catch a person's name when first introduced, ask again. People will be pleased that you care enough to ask again because it shows that you want to remember them. Close the conversation by offering your business card. You will almost certainly get one in return.

6. Listen to people's needs

Introverts are good listeners and processors of information. You must understand a person's problems before you can offer to help them. Listen and ask questions. You'll uncover all the information you need to decide whether and how you have something to offer.

7. Describe what you can offer but not all at once

You may have accumulated some broad expertise over the course of your career, but people aren't interested in hearing every detail. Focus on a small area of your expertise which you think might benefit a potential client most.

8. Don't be put off by rejection it's probably not rejection

Don't be disheartened if you develop a good relationship with a new person but that person doesn't need your services. Still keep in touch. Follow up the conversation a few days later with a simple email that reflects on your conversation or the wider event, or email them some valuable and relevant information. Try to create further opportunities to keep in touch every few months.

9. Use third party referrals

Another way to expand your network is by using a referral from an existing client or acquaintance. Phoning or emailing a new person in this way automatically boosts your credibility and can be very powerful. Remember that if you're going to say "Person X from Company Y suggested I contact you", you need to be certain that Person X is fine with you using their name in this way.

10. Practice your approach

If you're struggling setting up meetings with potential clients, practice your approach with a colleague and ask for their feedback. Remember that we're all in the business of doing business and networking doesn't always come naturally even to the extroverts among us.

Sources:

• http://www.mzbierlyconsulting.com/bank-sales-corner-blog/bid/39672/Prospecting-Tips-for-Business-Bankers-Getting-in-the-Door.
• http://www.bookmarklee.co.uk/2009/02/06/10-top-networking-tips/.
• http://www.mzbierlyconsulting.com/bank-sales-corner-blog/bid/77889/How-to-Build-a-Business-Network-Tips-for-Bankers-Part-1.