Introvert Coaches: Breaking Barriers in Networking and Rising as Divas!
Kim Gray ACC, CMAC
ACC | Certified Marketing Monster Coach | Speaker | Facilitator | Course Creator | Author | Certified Introvert | Disabled Veteran | Woman and Minority Owned
?Let’s be real about something right up front. Marketing strategies are designed to cater to Extroverts. That’s right! The focus is always on the numbers and collecting massive names, spending time online daily sharing and commenting, yada yada yada.?That’s cool for Extroverts, but Introverts can’t succeed at doing extroverted marketing because that’s not how we are built.
The good news is that Introverts can succeed at marketing! How? By using Introvert Marketing strategies which are comfortable and authentic to our style of meeting and connecting. Click here to listen to this episode on our podcast.
For example, let’s look at three situations where introvert characteristics are used to create positive experiences in networking and connecting with people:
Situation 1: Introverts like to enjoy 1-on-1 conversations
Whenever I am invited to an event locally, I tend to avoid large crowds of people I don’t know. My greatest fear isn’t in meeting people but the fear of never knowing how safe I’ll be.?I prefer small intimate circles of friends where we have food, drinks, laughter, and fun conversations. My idea of a great networking event would include those I already know and have plans to connect with when I get there.
That’s my idea of networking -- building relationships one person at a time happens over a series of events, creating memories to share, bonding through life’s moments, and showing genuine concern.
Situation 2: Introverts are more reserved
Walking into a room full of people and mingling is not my thing. My mother says that I like to watch people and could sit in a room observing without saying a word. She is so right! I do watch people and take mental notes of as much as possible. Then when I think the “coast is clear”, I approach those who seem to be alone, who seem content to be alone, or who wish the wall would swallow them up. I feel that these are my introverts, and we should connect.
That’s how I prefer to network -- connect with people rather than collect cards. Time is precious, and you only get to make that first impression once. No sales pitch, just friendly conversation focused on being able to share, laugh, and have a reason to connect later.
Situation 3: Introverts like to stay in the background
I love to collaborate with others on projects that have a definite outcome. Being in the spotlight doesn’t appeal to me, but getting credit for my contribution on the project is important. Designing and leading projects has put me in the spotlight on many occasions, but I make sure to include everyone in the ‘atta gals’ when the time comes for recognition. Why? Because the success couldn’t have come without the efforts of all involved. I know how it feels to be left out when credit is due.
That’s how I choose to build collaborative relationships, joint partnerships, and alliances. If everyone promotes the success of the project, we reach so many more people together than if we only promote ourselves.
Notice how in each situation, I chose to turn a “lemon” situation into a tall glass of sweet, peach tea – diet of course. However, my ability to recognize the lemons came after a year of attending every type of networking event, joining various women’s groups, and volunteering to speak at non-profit events. That’s when I figured out that I was running in circles that didn’t appeal to me. I decided to seek out my preferred circles and connect with them on a regular basis.
Here’s a challenge for you. I’d like you to think about my networking and marketing preferences shared above. Which of the following opportunities do you think I would attend?
领英推荐
CHOICE #1: a 3-day conference of 100 women focused on empowerment and leadership
CHOICE #2: a one -day event of 100 people attending a lecture on empowering women through leadership
Which one would you attend and why? Feel free to share your reply below and I’ll respond.
If you fancy yourself as a fellow Introvert, can you see how you can have success in marketing your business? It just takes a little bit of effort to define your preferences and apply them to your networking and marketing activities. Then you will be able to find your “circles” and start connecting on your terms.
So, keep this in mind when attending your next event. Enter the room with confidence, engage as though it were your event, and enjoy connecting with just a few. Don’t worry about the Extroverts because they will be just fine collecting and mingling.
Recommended Books for my Introvert Souls
The Introvert’s Complete Career Guide: From Landing a Job, to Surviving, Thriving, and Moving on Up?-- Jane Finkle
The Introverted Leader: Building on Your Quiet Strength -- Jennifer Kahnweiler
Hiding in the Bathroom: An Introvert's Roadmap to Getting Out There (When You'd Rather Stay Home) -- Morra Aarons-Mele