Networking Calls Anxiety
The title of the thread is pretty self-explanatory, but there are a few things I’d like to clarify. I'm not socially awkward by any means, though I’ve been quite timid my whole life. Whenever I have a scheduled call, I find it nearly impossible to focus on anything else that day until the call happens.
About 10–20 minutes before the call, I start feeling really anxious—almost to the point of a panic attack. However, once the call starts, I’m as confident and calm as can be. It’s not affecting my ability to network, but it mentally exhausts me. This is especially difficult because I have calls almost every day, and the anxiety beforehand distracts me from my other responsibilities in school, where I’m a triple major juggling a heavy workload.
Has anyone experienced something similar? How did you overcome it? I know it’s a mental hurdle, but I’m not sure how to manage it. Thanks in advance for any advice!
How many calls did you do? Maybe you just need to do more to get over the anxiety. Networking calls should be low stress. Unless you're meeting with the CEO, there's always someone else to talk to.
I have done probably around 200 calls by now but it still happens every time regardless of who I am talking to
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Tbh I always feel this in some way before a call, networking event, etc. The pull toward what's easy and comfortable is just always there. But I try to focus on the feeling after—the 'glad I did it' moment.
Kind of like the gym. I'm rarely jumping out of bed eager to go, but I always feel better afterward. That’s why I keep showing up
Try to figure out what is causing this anxiety. Are you afraid of the outcome of the discussion? Are you comfortable enough with the level of preparation and knowledge you have on the various discussion subjects? Or what is the potential trigger? If you are able to identify the cause you should be able to find a way to address it right? If you can improve your self confidence this should apply to these networking events / calls as well.
Personally speaking I never felt any pressure or anxiety in such calls, I view the people on the other end as potential business opportunities which frankly is exciting. Albeit, some calls are boring, in which case I just try to make them as brief as possible.
Don't let this be a factor that impacts your long-term career. You can try preparing an agenda for yourself before the calls with some key points and items you are comfortable discussing. People typically understand you are a younger and are working to achieve a goal.
You're probably right. I think what really triggers me is the fear that I don't know enough and that my questions aren't as elaborate as they should be.
Also, the limited alumni network at my university makes me feel like this is my only chance to get anything.
Get lots of reps in and smile throughout the call even when the counterparty cant see u.
I find it helpful to remind myself before any professional interaction that the person on the other side of the phone/table wants it to go well. Whether it’s an interview, networking call, client meeting, or presentation at an event, no one wants to be subjected to an awkward, uncomfortable conversation. They are rooting for you.
Are you a sophomore? Put it into perspective. If you’re talking to an analyst, 2-3 years ago they were in your shoes getting blacked out on weekends. If they’re taking the time for a call they want to help you. Just be yourself, take some time to look at their background, and ask interesting questions. Confidence is important!
Just reaching out to say I am a sophomore and this happens to me every single time. I hate emailing people / doing the phone calls makes me anxious and a 15 minute phone call will take up like the entire day of mental energy lol
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