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Introverts often get a lot of input . . . “You’re not worthy. You are a loner or a hermit. You aren’t social and can’t make friends.”
I heard those voices throughout my childhood… from me, inside my head!
And then I heard them from classmates, co-workers, and others in my life for decades!
I always felt like I was different in some unknown way and that made me unsure and apprehensive.
Introvert Strengths
It took me until my 40s to recognize that I wasn’t strange or dysfunctional (any morethan anyone else), or a loner relegated to only my own thoughts. After much research and reflection (two common introvert traits), I discovered that roughly half the world are introverts. But more importantly, I realized that I’m not a second-class citizen but that I have many talents that are needed in the board room and the social hall.
I’m an insatiable planner. I usually consider many sides of an issue and prepare my words before speaking. I am a good listener that gathers information and compiles it, often into unique perspectives and complex problem-solving. I’m not “less than” but actually am a valuable countermeasure to some of the more outspoken, seat-of-thepants people that tend to usurp a lot of attention.
Once I realized my strengths, I was able to grow and leverage them for business success and social connection. Oh, I may never be the life of the party and walk out of networking events with a tall stack of business cards, but I will often make a few quite valuable relationships that can sprout into long term friendships and partnerships.
I’ve discovered that introversion is not my curse but my blessing!
I’ve also learnt that introversion is quite common within the art community. This should come as no surprise as creatives often explore their inner selves and gaze at scenes and ponder life in order to create their alluring and evocative art.
Marketing for Introverts
While most artists embrace this process in creating new pieces and expressions, many find that talking about their art and marketing it even to the most intrigued audience can be overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are some time-tested tips: 1) Prepare: don’t just “wing it” but prepare your elevator speech. Practice alone or with friends and family.
2) Bring notes: don’t rely on memorizing your script. Bring a small note card to lean on until it becomes commonplace.
3) Choose the right environment: often large crowds of strangers can be overwhelming. Find smaller venues or markets or leverage your “home field advantage” and have studio open houses.
4) Take breaks: Introverts need to re-energize. Ensure you take a break before, during, and after your show or market. Take a walk, escape with a phone app, listen to music.
5) Use YOUR style: no need to be lunging into the aisle to grab prospective buyers.
Create an inviting display, let them come in and browse, and let them know you are available if they have any questions.
6) Ask questions: People love to be asked questions. It can take the focus off you, and it can create a bit of a bond as well. Ask who they may be shopping for or if they are an artist or creative themselves.
Learning about your introversion and proudly using your innate skills can open the door to greater self-assurance, happiness, and marketing success.
The key is not to change yourself, but to be yourself!
To Learn More About Introversion: Steve Friedman is an award-winning author of his memoir, In Search of Courage: An Introvert’s Story, and of his leadership book, The Corporate Introvert: How to Lead and Thrive with Confidence. His website, Beyond Introversion, includes blogs, books, and Strength Quizzes that can be found at www.BeyondIntroversion. com.
