Need help with Introductions/Elevator Pitch

Being an introvert I find it really hard to go to mixers and cold approach attendees. Though I also know that because of this I am losing out on building a network. How do some of you walk up to people you dont know? What do you talk about?

Networking in today's world feels so pretentious. Is there a way to build professional relationships that doesn't feel so... icky? What's your approach to networking? Have you found ways to make it feel more authentic?

Good people of grapevine, I am a start up bug and have been in the industry for 6+ years. I sometimes find myself adding great value to people one on one (based on feedback), and even think that I have good ideas and intentions, but I am morbidly afraid of networking and find it intimidating to talk to people outside of my close circles. I don't intend to be a sad puppy and waste your time for sympathy, but only want to know and grasp the mindsets of being more effective communicators leaving aside all my negative biases. Thanks and cheers!

I'm going to a work event at my internship company tonight and need to impress! (PPO bells ringing in background) Want to look professional but also show some personality. How do I strike that balance without being overdressed (or totally out of place)? P.S. A Final year student stressing out I'm a F, if that helps

Random thought- I hate the idea of going to office and seeing /talking to people. Imagine running from one investor to other, pitching your startup Do you know anyone? Or do introverts continue with their desk jobs.

I have identified my limiting factors here 1. Introvert, very bad at small talk (any talk for that matter) 2. My first reaction to networking is to get a job, and when that doesn't happen; there's no common table I know networking does not restrict itself to referrals for next job, it can also develop into partnerships that may not even need you to work at a job But how? Also, how do you guys keep in touch with accomplished friends? Everytime I message them, I feel so little.

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How do you overcome being an introvert and managing your team ?