feeling at a disadvantage because you're an introvert?

Back in the day, when I was building my commercial writing business, I used direct mail to do it. Partly, because I was very good at it--I could count on new business with every mailing--and partly because I dreaded the alternatives. The alternatives were networking (the face-to-face kind), cold calling on the phone (which is still recommended by many "gurus" today), and door-to-door sales calls. I always felt I was more convincing writing to people than I was in person.

For years I felt guilty over the dread I felt with regard to cold calling. I was an introvert. I'm STILL an introvert. That's not to say that I don't like nice people. I do! And I can hold up my end of the conversation if the talk has a modicum of substance. I'm certainly not agoraphobic. I love to go out on the town to see a movie, have dinner, etc., etc., but I’d rather it be just me and my wife or my two sons, rather than a large group of miss-matched individuals, each with his own agenda. And in the athletic realm, I tend to shun team sports. I used to be a runner—that’s pretty much a solo sport—and now, I’m a long distance cyclist. I’m often asked, ‘who do you ride with?’ My answer: mostly by myself.

In my business I truly enjoy intelligent collaboration with other marketing professionals, but honestly, that rarely occurs. More often meetings are attended by an assortment of uninformed participants, sometimes disillusioned corporate drones, and we all become enlightened by a honcho who dictates his prescription for ultimate success. Hmmm, possibly an extrovert.

For years I felt like my introversion was a character flaw, an opinion reinforced by many dear to me. Well, it’s NOT a character flaw. It’s just who I am. I’m a good person. I’m thoughtful. I’m helpful, and I enjoy doing good work. I’m comfortable in my own skin. And I’m not afraid to reside in my own space—alone. There’s nothing wrong with being an introvert.

Yesterday, I came across an audio file by Marcia Yudkin, a successful writer and marketing expert, that I enjoyed very much. On it she talks about being an introvert, while still being an effective marketer. Yes, it’s quite possible—admittedly more so today, than it was before the age of the digital magic that we currently enjoy. If you’re an introvert, download Marcia’s audio file, it's free. And remember: it’s not a weakness, learn to play to your strengths and personality, and be comfortable in your own skin. History contains many highly successful introverts. If you’re an extrovert, have a listen anyway. You’re sure to learn some interesting things about introverts that you’ll find useful. 

Comments

[Kim S.]

I think many writers can relate to this entry, Lloyd. Absolutely. I think our enjoyment of lone time is what allows us to spend so much time writing. If we were ultra-social people who felt the need to be out there constantly socializing, we wouldn't get a word written! That said, on my blog, I try to teach balance to writers. Blogging is a great (introverted) way to spread your name around. (I love blogging!) But, sometimes, getting out there in front of people--whether that's at a bookstore signing, or public speaking engagement of some sort--will give a writer an advantage over others. We're all more memorable in person.

[Lloyd Lemons]

Thanks for your comment Kim. And, of course, you are absolutely right: We're all more memorable in person. (That can, however, be a double-edged sword.;-) And balance is important in all things.

Face-time is an important marketing tool, and even though it carries some dread for me, I must admit, I always come away feeling energized. Your advice to writers is right on: don't be a hermit.

I love blogging too!