Marketing 101 for introverts
4th, Oct 2021
Years ago, I read the book Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. I recognized myself in the book and gained a new appreciation for the benefits of being an introvert. While the book talks about the value that introverts bring to any situation, it is tough to be an introvert and market yourself. When I started my own business, I realized I had to get out of my comfort zone because I needed to make lots of new connections.
The key to effective marketing for any type of professional is to establish and maintain strong relationships. As an introvert, it can be more difficult to get to know new people. Once you do, you need to nurture the relationship to build trust and credibility and stay top of mind, which can also present challenges. How do you do that as an introvert? Here are a few tips that can help:
Networking:
- Focus on small groups. Introverts often prefer smaller groups of people, so join a professional association or charitable organization and volunteer on a committee. Or get involved in a business referral networking group.
- Take a breather at large events. If you go to a big event, try to talk to a few people, then if needed, take a break from the crowd by walking outside or sitting in a lounge area. Cellphones make it easy to look busy when you really just need to get away.
- Follow up for one-on-ones. Reach out to schedule a call or one-on-one meeting. This should be your focus whether you are an introvert or extrovert.
- Be helpful. It’s better to give than receive in any relationship. Make introductions and referrals and ask contacts about other ways you can help them.
Social media:
- Connect to contacts. Once you’ve met someone, connect on social media. It is an easy stress-free way to stay in touch and learn more about the person.
- Share your thoughts. On social media, you can plan what you want to say, write it down, and think about it before anyone sees it. This is an ideal situation for many introverts. Take advantage of social media to post thoughtful content and comment on other people’s posts.
Research:
- Read, listen and learn. Introverts like to be prepared. Use Google and social media to research your contacts and prospects before a phone call or meeting. The more you know about their interests and activities, the easier it is to interact in a meaningful way.
Writing:
- Start a blog. If you like to write, blogging is a flexible platform that you control, so you can write what you want, when you want. Make the information helpful and share it with your contacts to keep you in their minds.
- Write for other publications. Have a staff member or hire someone to look for writing opportunities. This is great to help you demonstrate your expertise and build credibility.
Video/Public speaking:
- Consider video vs live presentations. An introvert may not feel comfortable presenting live, but be okay with video because you can keep re-recording yourself or have someone edit the video so you look and sound professional. I personally don’t enjoy either one, but I realize the tremendous value of verbal communication, so I tend to do live presentations over video. (At least I don’t have to watch myself if it’s live.)
Email:
- Maximize email marketing. Emails are a great supplement to networking. One-on-one emails help you stay in touch and have the benefit of allowing you to respond on your schedule as with social media. Email newsletters to all your contacts serve as a tool to highlight your expertise and stay top of mind with your network.
If you are an introvert, you can be an effective marketer and you may even end up a better marketer than many extroverts. While you may have to stray outside your comfort zone at times, there is still room to adapt tactics to best suit your personality.
For help with your marketing, contact us for a consultation.
Tagged: networking, social media, writing
