How I navigate the Business World as an Introvert.

The business world is dominated by extroverts and sometimes it feels like you just can't win as an introvert. I've built a business by embracing my introverted nature and working around my weaknesses.

It generally started by doing the hard things first. I remember when I would sleep off just after an intense 1-hour discovery call with a client, or when I would need to keep a note on my screen so I would not chicken out and forget my lines, or be too scared to send a follow-up email to a prospect. Now I lead strategy sessions for teams of up to 50 members and speak at virtual events (still looking forward to speaking physically).

Here are lessons I've learned as an introvert with a successfully growing agency:

• Don't try to be an extrovert. Extroverts are great at networking and schmoozing, but I have other strengths. Focus on your strengths, like listening, observing, and thinking critically.

I'm not shy, but I prefer to spend my time learning new things, writing, and thinking (read overthinking). I've learned that I don't need to be an extrovert to be successful in business. I can use my innate strengths to my advantage. For example, I'm a great listener. I pay attention to the little details, and I'm good at understanding complex problems. These skills have helped me to build strong relationships with my clients and to develop creative solutions to their challenges. Oh, I am a great 1v1 conversationalist, my clients love talking to me on the phone (even things outside of work).

• Use technology to your advantage. There are many ways to connect with people if face-to-face interaction causes you anxiety. Use video conferencing, email, and social media to stay in touch with clients and colleagues.

Technology has made it easier for me to be an introvert in the business world. I can connect with people without having to put myself in uncomfortable situations.

• Set boundaries. Introverts need time to recharge their batteries. Make sure you set boundaries so that you can get the alone time you need. This could mean working from home, taking breaks during the day, or walking in nature.

I need time to myself to recharge my batteries. If I need to do long stretches of work, I like to find a lovely, quiet cafe or bookstore around my city to work. It's important to set boundaries and take care of yourself. If you don't, you'll burn out.

• Delegate. Don't try to do everything yourself. Build a team you can trust so you can delegate tasks to your team members and focus on what you're best at.

I'm confident in delegating tasks to my team members. I can't do everything myself, and I'm convinced my team can do the job with the systems I have implemented. This frees up my time to focus on what I'm best at, like strategy and creative development.

Not convinced? Here are introverts that thrived in their industry:

• Albert Einstein
• Steve Wozniak
• J.K. Rowling
• Susan Cain
• Bill Gates

These are just a few examples of famous introverts who have used their strengths to their advantage. By learning from these examples, you can also gain the confidence to succeed in business and life.

I'm living proof that it's possible to be an introvert and be successful in business. So, If you're an introvert who wants to be successful in business, don't let your personality type hold you back. Embrace your introverted nature and use your strengths to your advantage.

I'm Gideon, founder of Pixxis Agency , and I am open to connecting. Subscribe to this newsletter as I share more intricate details of my weekly journey, building my agency.