The Introvert Infrastructure: 10 Hacks for A More Authentic Business When You Prefer To Be Inward-Facing
The internet age is crazy, when you really think about it. Because of the Internet, one could argue that, as humans, we have more digital interactions with other humans than in-person interactions, especially if you own a business and work from home. That means that we get to know some, if not most, people better online than we do in real life. That’s crazy!
And as absolutely mind-boggling as that idea is, it’s been equally fascinating to experience the differences and similarities between living digitally and outside our screens. You would think that working from home would be an introvert’s paradise and an extrovert’s nightmare. In some situations, that may be true. But I don’t think it’s that simple.
Because at the end of the day, our personalities don’t change because we’re online or offline (insert eye roll here). You know what I mean, though. Just like a true extrovert can feel stimulated by a live webinar, a direct message, or a thoughtful email - an introvert can feel avoidant of the same situations.
Someone once described the difference between introverts and extroverts in a way I’ll never forget. They said, “Introverts receive the most energy from time alone with themselves. Extroverts receive the most energy from time spent with others.” This definition struck a chord with me because, as an introverted person myself, I didn’t identify with society’s definition of who an introvert is (aka - a hermit?)
I love spending time with the people I love. I love exploring new places, meeting new people, and having interesting conversations. Though I can identify times when I was outwardly “shy,” people who know me well probably wouldn’t define me that way.
But, and this is an important distinction, I don’t feel renewed, energetic, or inspired after a night of mingling at an event or a weekend at a family reunion. Especially not the second one. Sorry, family. As I get older, I realize how my mind and physical body require time with myself, especially after time spent with others. To be able to think clearly, ideate, organize, and just be - I prefer to be alone. It’s life-giving for me.
So, if you’re anything like me, you may find yourself feeling avoiding even digital interactions. It doesn’t mean we can just call into our monthly huddles or client meetings and say, “You know what, Dave? I’d rather not.” I wish. Putting yourself and your work out there doesn’t have to mean changing your personality or showing up online differently than you would in person. I believe that we, as introverts, can find a balance between creating value for others to consume (whether that be a product, service, content, etc.) and creating value for ourselves - by ourselves.
So…how can you show up more authentically as an introverted entrepreneur? Let’s talk about it.
We all deserve to show up inside our businesses as we are and serve our audiences in ways that reflect our care for them and our respect for ourselves.
Stay with me on this…
Imagine your ideal client; imagine every detail of the person you’d love to serve.
Imagine them sending you an email that reads, “I just have to tell you that you make me feel seen as a customer/follower. I can tell how much you care about your audience, and I appreciate it immensely. Not many businesses in your industry can connect with me like you do. Thank you.”
It is possible to give, in excess even, without depleting yourself. Here are a few ideas on how:
Share as much as you're comfortable with. Avoid falling into the trap of "authenticity shame." Share content that feels right for you—neither more nor less.
Choose resonant content pillars: Select topics that genuinely resonate with you. Align your marketing efforts with your true interests and passions, not necessarily what your industry demands.
Infuse your voice into your marketing: Let your unique voice shine through in your marketing materials. Inject your personality and perspective into the content you create.
Set interaction boundaries: Designate specific times for employee, client, or customer interactions. Prioritize alone time in your business to maintain your energy levels.
Communicate your preferred contact method: Clearly state your preferred contact mode with clients, customers, coworkers, etc., and any stipulations around it. This will help others understand your communication preferences and respect them.
Engage with your audience authentically: Pay attention to your audience's needs and engage with them by interacting with their content. Show genuine interest and provide value without any strings attached.
Embrace email marketing: Leverage the power of email marketing, which aligns well with introverted tendencies. Craft thoughtful, targeted messages that resonate with your audience when you feel creative, then schedule them.
Connect with fellow introverted entrepreneurs: Seek networking opportunities with like-minded individuals who understand the challenges and advantages of introversion in business. This helps combat isolation. We’re always looking for more introverted friends at EmailGirl.
Establish a “post-peopling plan”: After heightened social activity, I like to create a plan for rest and rejuvenation. Give yourself the necessary downtime to recover from social exertion. For example, if I go to an event that is 3 hours long, I like to give myself 3 hours afterward (if possible) to decompress or do something that fills my energy bucket back up.
Automate your processes: Invest time setting up automation for your marketing and business processes. Email marketing is a powerful platform for automating your marketing efforts, allowing you to spend less time "on" and focus more on what you enjoy.
You’ll experience a newfound sense of authenticity and alignment by implementing any of the 10 Introvert Infrastructure tips into your business. Say goodbye to burnout and anxiety, and embrace the fantastic introverted individual that you are.
Remember, putting yourself out there in honor of your business doesn't require changing who you are or adopting a different persona online. Your true self is enough to create meaningful connections with your audience.
This year, I hope you commit to being more authentic than ever before. Embrace your introverted nature as a strength, and create a business that reflects your identity. With The Introvert Infrastructure as your foundation, you'll cultivate a thriving and fulfilling business while staying true to yourself.