Are you ready to get out of your shell to start your dream business? Here is how to be an entrepreneur as an introvert and become successful!
Indeed, the idea that only extroverts can be successful in business is a myth.
The truth is, you can be an introvert and still be a confident problem solver and decision-maker.
Of course, in a world set up for extroverted entrepreneurs, we introverted entrepreneurs must understand how best to manage our strengths and weakness as this enables us to set ourselves up for success.
So, if you’ve been thinking about being an entrepreneur but feel hesitant because you are an introvert, here are some tips to help you succeed.
How to be an entrepreneur as an introvert
Here are 9 tips on how to be an entrepreneur as an introvert.
1. Understand you’re not alone.
According to research, one-third to one-half of all Americans are introverts. In her brilliant book The Introvert’s Way: Living a Quiet Life in a Noisy World, Sophia Dembling discusses some of the things introverts hate, including costume parties, skinny dipping, audience involvement, practical jokes, and karaoke.
To this list, I would add group bonding exercises, and surprise parties.
The good news is that even in the entrepreneurial world, you’re not alone in your introvert wants and preferences.
A new study has found that we over perceive how many extroverts are out there.
Since many of us “quiet ones” are drawn to the freedom and creativity that comes with entrepreneurship, there may be more introverted entrepreneurs out there than we think.
2. Create an introvert-friendly business.
When choosing what type of business to start, make sure you choose a business that capitalizes on your strengths.
Building a business around your hobby or passion would be great!
For example, if you enjoy writing, mentoring, or researching, you may want to consider starting a blog or becoming a life coach.
You can consider a business that requires networking and cold-calling.
Introverts excel in email marketing and social media because it offers us time to think of what we want to say.
Accounting, design, writing, engineering, social media marketing, and mental health are some of the top business fields for introverts.
Also, focus on the activities that are most comfortable for you when it comes to marketing your business.
Just remember that being an introvert can be an advantage rather than a liability.
3. Embrace your introversion.
Many introverts are often stigmatized for being too sensitive, quiet, or reserved. This is sad.
Understand that there exist some biological differences between how extroverts and introverts react to stimuli.
So, learn to focus on the benefits of being an introvert, instead of looking at the drawbacks.
Your quiet nature, for example, suggests that you’re well aware of your surroundings, including your clients’ and employees’ needs.
So, use your awareness to innovate new products, grow formal relationships, and improve processes.
4. Arrange for more one-on-one meetings
For an introvert, crowded rooms and small talk are never comfortable situations.
However, if you want to sell yourself and your business, you’ll find yourself in the middle of both at some point.
Contrary to popular belief, introverts aren’t bad with people; they only prefer a small group of people they know well to a large group of strangers.
To make this work for you, schedule one-on-one, or small group meetings.
This is based on your preference for social quality over quantity.
These more intimate arrangements as opposed to a large room full of strangers will keep you from becoming overstimulated.
5. Promote yourself like an introvert
In business, the ability to sell yourself is critical, and for introverts, self-promotion can be particularly tough.
The key is to promote yourself in ways that fit your skillset.
Introverts, for example, are often good writers, so a well-written article in an industry publication can help you reach a larger audience.
You might even create a creative social media campaign or blog series from the comfort of your own office.
However, face time cannot be avoided completely, so what you can do is go into social events with a greater sense of purpose.
Try hosting an event rather than going to a networking event where you may find yourself strolling aimlessly around the room trying to make small talk.
As a result, you may become a go-to person where others are forced to come to you.
The same is true with public speaking.
Instead of being bogged down in lots of smaller conversations, taking the podium allows you to reach a large number of people at once.
6. Get an extroverted partner
If you’re an introvert looking to run a business, you might want to look for extra help in areas where you’re lacking.
If selling isn’t your strong suit, for example, you might want to consider finding a business partner who is an excellent salesperson and who will complement your personality and skill set.
You may also hire a freelancer or an agency to handle some projects that you aren’t comfortable with.
Also, if there are activities you want to accomplish but aren’t good at such as public speaking, get a coach and start practicing.
Warren Buffett is a living example as he once had the fear of public speaking which he overcame.
The lesson here is not to allow your weaknesses to get in the way of your goals.
7. Deal with extroverts patiently.
While dealing with extroverted clients or employees, understand that they think differently.
For extroverts, meeting new people and being regularly active energizes them. They aren’t trying to annoy you!
So, learn to objectively listen to their views and try to come up with a compromise that suits both personalities.
8. Take time to recharge and manage your energy
Introverts require alone time to recharge their batteries and spark creative thinking.
Although you may love being in the company of others, too much socializing can cause you to “over-stimulate.”
To ensure you don’t burn out, carve out some time for yourself by taking advantage of having the freedom to create your schedule since you are your boss.
Related post: what happens when introverts don’t get alone time.
9. Maximize your leadership potential.
People often associate extroversion with leadership. However, Wharton professor, Adam Grant’s groundbreaking research on leadership shows that extroverts don’t necessarily make the best bosses.
In his research, Grant looked at the profits of pizza delivery franchises and examined their different management techniques.
He discovered that when employees are proactive, introverted managers lead them to earn higher profits, and when employees are not proactive, extraverted managers lead them to higher profits
“Introverted leaders are more likely to carefully listen to suggestions and support employees’ proactive efforts,” Grant explains.
Extroverted leaders, on the other hand, “want to be the center of attention” and “see employee proactivity as a threat.”
So, as an introverted business owner, you can apply Grant’s discoveries to your own business by encouraging employees to speak up and give suggestions.
Generally, allowing employees to run with their ideas can help produce greater results.
Former 3M CEO William McKnight believed in this philosophy, allowing employees to spend 15% of their time on pet projects.
This principle is still followed by 3M and has led to the creation of innovations including the Post-it® note.
Conclusion
Do not let your introversion prevent you from starting your own business.
As an entrepreneur, understanding your strengths and weaknesses will help you succeed.
Just understand that introverts have special qualities that should be shared with the world, and with the right mindset, you will succeed, so go for it!
Related Post: Can Introverts Be Successful in Business?
