Being an introverted business owner can be a little tricky at times. You have to be able to put yourself out there, network with people (lots of scary strangers), and proudly sell your products or services with lots of (terrifying) small talk. But it does not have to be all bad news. There are also many great things about being an introverted business owner. For one, we are often very good at deep work and focusing on the task at hand. We are excellent at listening and ingesting information. We are also usually very creative and have so many great ideas that are just waiting to be shared with the world.
Here are 5 tips for being an introverted business owner:
1. Embrace your introversion
Don't try to be someone you're not. There's nothing wrong with being an introvert. In fact, there are many advantages to being an introverted business owner. Your honesty will encourage other introverts to be open with you too!
2. Find your niche
There are many different types of businesses that are perfect for introverts. For example, you could start a business that allows you to work from home or a business that doesn't require a lot of face-to-face interaction with customers. We have found that when we choose to have a market stall techniques like memorising an opening line or practicing how you will interact with a customer really helps!
3. Set boundaries
It's important to set boundaries between your personal and professional life. This will help you avoid burnout and stay sane. As soon as we leave the studio for the day, we have a good few hours of phone-free time. We eat dinner and spend time with the family without the stresses of the business, no disaster will happen in that little time! Relax!
4. Take care of yourself & Celebrate your successes
Make sure you're getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and exercising regularly. And do not be too hard on yourself. This will help you stay focused and productive. Running a business is hard, whether you are introverted or extroverted, so pat yourself on the back because you've made it this far! Also, don't forget to celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem. This will help you stay motivated and keep moving forward.
5. It is always okay to adapt
At the start of this business journey, the thought of putting myself in front of the camera for social media would physically make me feel ill. But throughout the years I have found coping mechanisms that make social media manageable. For me, filming vlogs and clips is easier because I can add a narration afterward and I don't have to talk in front of the camera directly. And, as with most things, the more you do it, the easier it becomes. Just do what you can and make a start.
Being an introverted business owner can be a challenge, but it's also a rewarding experience. I hope these tips have helped you a little, you've got this!
Introverts Unite! (but only if you have some social battery left, do not worry otherwise) If you're an introverted business owner, what tips would you add to this list? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Speak soon, Em xx