If your anxiety about meeting new people is so bad that it is debilitating (and I'm not saying it is), you may be suffering from social anxiety disorder, which is a psychological disorder similar to anxiety disorder. You might want to talk to your doctor about it...there are medications you can take now which really work wonders.
The only reason I am saying this is because I have had AWFUL problems with anxiety in my life and after finally getting treatment, I am happier than I have ever been. There is no point in putting yourself through misery if it can be prevented
Good luck with recruitment!