If you are a reserved person the idea of networking and meeting people to tell them about your business can strike absolute terror in your soul. However, networking still remains a productive way for many sellers to help increase their leads base and grow their businesses. The following steps can help reserved professionals become more effective networkers:

1. Recognize and deal with the aspects of networking that bother you most. For example, if you're scared of meeting people, begin by practicing with friends and family members.. Tell them about your interests, training and abilities. Or, if you're worried about becoming tongue-tied, role-play your meetings until you feel confident about what to say.

2. Get very comfortable with your 30-second “commercial” so whenever you have the opportunity to tell it to someone it just rolls off your tongue. The commercial should included what you do, your specialty, what problem you can solve with your services, etc. It should let the person understand immediately what you do, your particular specialty (niche) and how it can help a particular problem. Think of it as your “verbal logo.”

For instance, when that person you’ve just given your verbal logo to sees you across the room, they should be able to easily identify you with what you do. Even though it will be rehearsed, be sure that you don’t sound that way. The easiest way is to have a couple of versions you can choose from at the last minute. This also helps if you’re standing with people whom you’ve given your verbal logo to and a new person walks up. You can introduce yourself and give a slightly different verbal logo so it doesn’t sound identical to the rest of the group. It should sound conversational and clear.

3. Make calls when your energy is highest. If you know that you're more upbeat after lunch, save phone calls until then and use the morning for administrative tasks.

4. Know what you want to say when calling. Develop a script that includes your key points and use it to make sure you mention important items. Many introverts have difficulty making small talk. By learning about your contacts and their companies, you can direct your conversations and make them more meaningful.

5. Take time out to replenish yourself. Plan your schedule so that you have periods of solitude that allow you to recharge. For instance, don't schedule a full day's activities if you plan to network at an evening event.

While you don't have to change yourself, you'll need to learn extroverted skills and behaviors to become a more effective networker. Like an acquired taste, your appreciation for networking may grow. And when you start receiving the benefits, your appetite for it may even increase.