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Archive for Business Networking

Social Media Marketing as an Introvert

by Guest
February 27th, 2020

social media marketing

If you’re an introvert, the idea of having to network or market your services can be an anxiety-inducing nightmare. The idea of having to put yourself out there in front of a crowd can be overwhelming but it’s not impossible. There are several ways to market yourself on social media and you don’t have to be an expert to do it.

Focus on Your Services or Product

Social media is a great way to stay connected with friends and family for introverts and extroverts alike. You can share pictures, exchange messages, and, in general, keep up with everyone’s lives without having to physically be present. But it’s also an excellent tool to use for marketing too. If you’re thinking you’re not experienced enough to know how to use it as a marketing tool, or if you’re afraid your introversion might be a problem, don’t be so sure.

If putting yourself out there online even makes you nervous, look at it as simply a marketing tool. You don’t need to use it for personal reasons if you don’t feel compelled to do so. Focusing on it as a tool gives you room to step back and talk about your product and services instead of yourself. This gives you the chance to interact with your customers, answer their questions and address any issues they may have. When brands personally respond to messages, it creates a deeper relationship with the customer.

Plus, this is a great way to get customers to focus on your brand instead of the person behind the brand. You can communicate with them through your organization’s account and allow them to see the benefits of your product or service. It also allows you to show off your customer service skills and make connections. Having a customer service strategy is crucial in this day and age where every customer has a virtual platform to talk about your company. When you up your customer service game, customers take notice and oftentimes, they brag about it on social media.

Protecting Your Content

When you use social media as a marketing tool for your organization, you’re more likely to put a lot of work and effort into the content you create and share. If sharing these messages with an audience is already stressing you out because you’re an introvert, don’t compound that stress by forgetting to protect your content. The content you create belongs solely to you, but the internet makes it very easy for others to copy it for their own use and that’s not fair to you.

Before you begin your social media marketing campaign, take a look at copyright laws. Make sure you know how to protect your messages and images from being stolen. This will head off any stressful situations that might occur if you find someone else infringing on your copyright or violating your trademark. Plus, you’ll know what is legally allowed and what isn’t, which will make you better prepared to handle the issue.

Don’t Let Social Media Be a Drain

There are plenty of studies showing that too much social media isn’t good for anyone. In fact, one of the biggest groups affected is teenagers, who are often the targets of social media marketing. With smartphones, social media is only a few scrolls away with pictures of everyone’s supposedly perfect life. It’s easy to forget that these pictures are curated so you’re only seeing the highlights of everyone’s day. If you’re having a bad day, that can make you feel inadequate or upset. If you find that social media is causing you to feel depressed or anxious, even if you are only using it as a marketing tool, it’s okay to take a step back.

Introverts often need a break from being around others so they can recharge their batteries and that includes social media. Know your limits and know it’s ok to take a few days off if social media is affecting your mental health. Your mental well being is more important than anything else. If you stay aware of how you’re feeling, the use of social media as a marketing tool will be even easier when you decide to make your comeback.

Photo by Christian Wiediger on Unsplash

Indiana Lee is a writer and journalist from the Pacific Northwest with a passion for covering business, social justice, environmental protection, and more. In her off time you can find her reading in her hammock or hiking with her dogs. You are welcome to follow her on Twitter or reach her at indianaleewrites@gmail.com.

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Categories Business Networking
Tags : business tips for introverts, Marketing, social media
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Tips for Introverts to Thrive at Networking Events

by Guest
January 27th, 2018

handshakeIf the thought of attending networking events make you physically sick to your stomach you will likely find any excuse to avoid them. It’s almost certain you will find yourself attending such a social event as you navigate your professional and personal life. Whether you are introverted or not, lots of people are not comfortable with public speaking but most do not suffer from the introvert’s level of social anxiety.

Approaching networking events tactfully and strategically will certainly garner you valuable experiences and relationships. The first step is to have a premeditated plan requiring research of the venue, subject matter, and guest list. Utilizing LinkedIn, Twitter, and other social media platforms it is quite easy to do surface level research about nearly every professional. This research will not only allow you to more easily recall names once introduced, you will also be able to brainstorm possible talking points. Once prepared, the event will be far less stressful and you can focus on your body language, compliments, and location during the event.

After the event comes important but often overlooked step, follow up. If you had any memorable conversations or actionable relationships, make sure you are fresh in their mind. Even introverts can come to master networking events. If you want to become a more effective networker as an introvert, put these tips from GetVoIP into action.

Tips for Introverts to Thrive at Networking Events

Photo by TeroVesalainen / Pixabay

Drew Page

 

Drew is a content marketing specialist focused on creating amazing content for businesses, entrepreneurs and employees to thrive.

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Networking for Introverts

by Hazel Thornton
May 19th, 2017

Networking Introverts

There’s no shortage of posts on the topic of business networking here on Introvert Retreat. Who wants to stand around making small talk in a noisy room full of strangers? Ack!

But I want to tell you about some recent experiences that indicate real hope for introverts!

I wrote a post – also called Networking for Introverts – for my own website, which covers the following topics:

  • The “Networking for Introverts” session I recently presented at my annual National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) conference in Pittsburgh, PA.
  • How it was inspired by Susan Cain’s TED Talk and her two books.
  • Why I now call myself a “professional introvert”, including a follow-up to my blog post here on Introvert Retreat called Introverts: The Next Generation.
  • TIPS for networking your way
  • TIPS for setting your own networking agenda
  • TIPS for introverts who are also shy
  • What Meyers-Briggs and rubber bands have to do with it.
  • How I was recognized — and surprised — in a BIG WAY for contributing quietly in my own little introverted way!
  • What makes the President of NAPO a true leader.

Ready to join me? Click here to read Networking for Introverts!

Please comment either there, or right here, below, and share your networking challenges and strategies with us.

Dare I ask you to comment in both places? Thanks!

Introverts Unite! Separately. In your own homes. LOL!

Hazel Thornton is a professional organizer and genealogist based in Albuquerque, New Mexico; creator of The Clutter Flow Chart Collection; and author of Go with the Flow! The Clutter-Clearing Tool Kit for an Organized Life. Visit her online at www.org4life.com.

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The Energetic Pitfall of Networking

by Guest
August 12th, 2014

exhausted introvert

Do you ever feel “energetically exhausted” after attending a networking event or other large-group business meetings? Many introverted entrepreneurs experience these feelings, and perhaps you are one of them, as well.

This energetic exhaustion often happens when you are literally fatigued from interacting with and being around people after a certain amount of time. You may feel mentally or emotionally exhausted after attending networking events, conferences or other business-type events.

Most introverted entrepreneurs tend to feel most energized when they have “alone time”; that deep urge to connect with people in order to feel energized isn’t usually there. This can create a challenge at events where lots of people will be in attendance. Since building connections are an important part of your business, it can feel difficult to develop these relationships if you’re feeling energetically drained during those kinds of events.

Here are some signs that you might be experiencing “people exhaustion”:

  • Losing focus from the group or conversation
  • You feel a headache starting
  • Feeling overwhelmed and/or distracted
  • A feeling of fatigue

Noticing what your particular “signs” are can be very helpful in deciding what to do next to protect your mental and emotional energy. Here are some helpful strategies to either prevent or ward off “people exhaustion” when it hits:

1. Take care of your physical needs beforehand.

Make sure that you’re well-hydrated and that you’ve had a snack/meal before attending the event. This simple step can do wonders to help you focus and maintain good energy while you’re there.

2. Get clear on your intentions before you go.

Decide what you’d like to learn or the kind of person you hope to meet at the event. Knowing what you intend to experience can support you in focusing on the right things once you show up.

3. Know how much you can handle.

If you’re feeling really drained energetically, it might be a good idea to leave quietly. It’s important to honor how you’re feeling, and if leaving early is what you need to do, then do it. Just make sure that you’re not leaving early to avoid introducing yourself, since becoming comfortable with public speaking is a valuable skill as an entrepreneur. This is about honoring your self-care when you’re starting to experience those “signs” we looked at earlier.

4. Take a break.

If you’re not able to leave the event right away (sometimes we can’t), then consider taking a break. Perhaps a quick visit to the washroom, a drink of water or a brisk walk is all you need to reconnect with the group in a better way.

There’s nothing to be ashamed of if you experience this kind of exhaustion at networking or other large group events. Many entrepreneurs (especially those with introverted qualities) experience this often. Having some strategies that you can turn to when you need them can help you to feel much more confident when you are out and about with lots of people for your business.

Milissa HardingMilissa Harding is a Mindset Coach for Introverted Entrepreneurs and Aspiring Leaders. She supports introverted entrepreneurs and leaders through her step-by-step system which shows them exactly how to grow a business in a way that fully aligns with who they are, instead of what they’ve been taught that they “should” do. As a result, her clients experience the ease, joy and success in their business that they truly deserve. Request your FREE report, “10 Steps to Create an Energetically-Rich Business as an Introverted Entrepreneur” at www.embraceyouandyourbiz.com

Image courtesy of jpcasais / photoXpress

 

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Categories Business Networking
Tags : business, introvert, networking
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A Room of One’s Own

by Hazel Thornton
May 25th, 2014

http://www.dreamstime.com/stock-images-suitcase-image19196924It’s not cheap being an introvert! Especially if you’re a single introvert who is used to being alone most of the time. I’m referring, in this case, to the extra cost of me-time that comes in the form of a single supplement for a room to oneself on a cruise…or on any occasion involving hotel rooms.

I’m in the midst of packing for a professional conference at which the majority of attendees will be paired up for the purpose of sharing the cost of a room. For many, it will also ensure that they will have more fun. More fun?! Sharing a room with a stranger? Even sharing with a friend can be stressful for an introvert who lives in peace and quiet at home. A roommate, even a quiet introverted one, requires more energy than I have to spare.

The conference is going to be educational, inspirational, and, yes, fun! It’s going to be SO MUCH fun that I’m going to need a place of my own at times to get away from it all and recharge my batteries. So I reserved my own room and will simply absorb the cost. I know it will be worth it. I will participate fully in the conference activities and then retreat to my peace and quiet. I will have dinner with others, and enjoy a glass of wine, but I will not be part of the dancing, drinking, karaoke crowd. I need my sleep!

When it comes to vacationing with others, it took me years to realize that it was worth it to me to simply get my own room. However, not only does it cost more, it also makes it difficult for others who would like to save money, and enjoy even more of my company, by sharing a room with me.

I realize there are different types and degrees of introversion. Do you, too, prefer a room to yourself? Or do you welcome the occasional stimulation and companionship of a travel roommate? What other costs can you think of that are associated with being an introvert? Please leave a comment in the section below!

Hazel Thornton is a professional organizer and genealogist based in Albuquerque, New Mexico; creator of The Clutter Flow Chart Collection; and author of Go with the Flow! The Clutter-Clearing Tool Kit for an Organized Life. Visit her online at www.org4life.com.

 

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Categories Business Networking, General
Tags : conference, Hotel, networking, travel
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Networking Tips for Introverted Entrepreneurs

by Guest
May 9th, 2014

business networking event

Photo courtesy of Open Data Institute Knowledge for Everyone, used under a Creative Commons License

Although networking is an important aspect of building a business, many quiet-natured entrepreneurs cringe at the thought of attending networking events, and would actually prefer to skip out on going to another event instead of enduring the uncomfortable, awkward and sometimes “fake” atmosphere that many of us have experienced. I know, because I used to feel this way too.

One of the reasons why introverted entrepreneurs dislike networking events is because there are simply too many damn people! There’s the pressure to talk with everyone, get to know everyone, “work the room” and collect all of these business cards, but it can feel so inauthentic and pretensive…..UNLESS you know how to navigate the scene in the right way that feels good, and most of us haven’t been taught how to do that.

This week, I want to invite you to let go of the need to interact with everyone you meet at a networking event. You don’t need to have a conversation with everyone. You don’t need everyone’s business card. You don’t need to end up exhausted and drained from trying to connect with everyone. All you need is ONE. All you need is to connect with just one person, and to feel good about that connection. That’s it. Imagine creating a community over time of people that you have come to know very well, as a result of investing your time and energy wisely in those relationships. I don’t know about you, but I would prefer connecting deeply with one person at a time instead of casually getting to know a whole bunch of people. Here’s how you do it…

1. Before attending your next networking event, create an intention around how you want to feel during and after the event.

2. Get clear around the type of person you would enjoy connecting with at the event. This could be a referral partner, potential client, a service provider you need, etc.

3. Remind yourself that you are focussing on connecting meaningfully with just one person at this event. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you’re planning to ignore everyone else 🙂 , but having this intention will allow you to feel more in control and confident, which in turn will help you to enjoy getting to know this person much more. Positive connections are key!

To receive the rest of the 5-part series on this topic of Networking for Introverts, sign up at www.embraceyouandyourbiz.com.

Milissa HardingMilissa Harding is a Mindset Coach for Introverted Entrepreneurs. She supports shy and introverted entrepreneurs through her step-by-step system which shows them exactly how to grow a business in a way that fully aligns with who they are, instead of what they’ve been taught that they “should” do. As a result, her clients experience the ease, joy and success in their business that they truly deserve. Learn more at www.embraceyouandyourbiz.com.

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Tags : business, introvert, networking
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How To Connect With Your Peers At Conferences (Even If You’re An Introvert)

by Guest
July 31st, 2013

Conferences are great opportunities for you to break out of the bubble you, and perhaps even your company may find yourself in from to time to time. Thing is though, for you to make the most of a conference you should be doing more than simply attending the talks and making notes. You should be networking with your fellow industry professions – your peers. This doesn’t always come naturally to everyone though. And in larger conferences especially it can be harder to connect with those outside of your party.

conference

So here are some tips to get you on your way to making connections.
Read More→

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Categories Business Networking
Tags : conferences
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Top 3 Networking Tips for Introverts

by Janet
January 16th, 2013

handshake

  1. If you find it difficult to approach others, offer to sit at the registration desk or greet people at the door at networking events. You’ll get to meet a lot of people without stepping so far outside your comfort zone.
  2. Offer to speak. I am very uncomfortable networking in large groups, but if I’m there as a featured expert, it’s very different.
  3. Arrange to meet with others one-on-one over coffee or lunch. This allows you to build deeper relationships, and you’ll be much more relaxed.

If you let introversion or shyness keep you from networking, you may miss out on some great business or career opportunities!

What is your favourite networking survival strategy?

Illustration courtesy of idea go / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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Tags : business, introvert, networking
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Self-Marketing for Introverted Virtual Assistants

by Janet
March 5th, 2012

Since becoming involved with the virtual assistant industry, I’ve noticed that a lot of introverts are drawn to this profession because it allows us to work independently in the comfort of our own homes and to communicate mainly through email or online.

virtual assistant attending a webinar

Unfortunately, when it comes to networking and promoting our businesses, many introverted VAs run into difficulty. After all, talking about ourselves just isn’t something that comes naturally to us.

That’s why I was really pleased to learn that Donna Gunter (who has been mentioned previously in this blog) is offering a webinar called Get Found Online: Best Strategies Helping Introverted Virtual Assistants (or VAs Who Hate to Market Themselves) Massively Increase Their Visibility Online, Today.

In this free class, Donna is going to talk about:

  • The 3 natural gifts almost every introvert possesses that serves as the foundation of your Internet marketing success
  • The million dollar questions you must answer BEFORE you start any marketing
  • A simple two-step plan that will instantly establish you as an expert in your field
  • The most effective method of establishing relationships online
  • How just one email per week can help you build a waiting list of clients
  • The best 15 minutes a day you can use to quickly build your network from zero to hundreds or thousands
  • The one Internet marketing secret NO ONE tells you about that will quadruple your marketing reach
  • The most effective strategy to share your expertise with hundreds of potential clients in only an hour a month

This learning opportunity is open to new and experienced virtual assistants worldwide and will be delivered via the internet, so you don’t even have to worry about travel or long distance expenses.

To register, visit the Canadian Virtual Assistant Connection and click on Webinars under the Resources tab.

Photo: Mitarart / Photoxpress

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Tags : business, introvert, Marketing, virtual assistant
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6 Marketing Strategies for Introverts

by Janet
October 5th, 2011

I recently read an interesting article by Introvert Marketing Coach Donna Gunter, in which she identifies the six best ways for introverts to promote themselves easily. I hadn’t thought about it in quite this way before, but after some reflection, it seems that all of these strategies have worked well for me.

one-on-one business networking

Here are Donna’s recommendations, along with my comments as to how I’ve applied them in my business.

1. Step into the shoes of your ideal client and target market.

When I started my business, I didn’t have an ideal client in mind. Like many new entrepreneurs, I was delighted to work with anyone who was willing to pay me. Gradually I came to recognize that I was happiest and best suited to working with professional organizers. Having been an organizer myself for a few years, I have a good understanding of their needs, so it’s easier for me to tailor my messages to that group.

Read More→

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Tags : business networking, business tips for introverts, introversion, introvert, Marketing
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