A recent Entrepreneur.com article on personal branding for introverts caught my eye. I do have a substantial number of introverted clients, and I know they struggle with networking and personal branding. Not only is the effort and exposure exhausting, but these clients often feel they are being boastful or obnoxious when they try to promote themselves and their expertise.
Here are a few of the ways you can promote your personal brand as an introvert, and for variations on the theme, do check out the original article:
- Share a few successes. Choose the three accomplishments you feel say the most about your value to an employer, team, or your colleagues. Mention them as part of your elevator pitch, your introduction of yourself, and during interviews or conversations with hiring influencers. Often, it’s easier for introverts to focus on a few strong successes rather than a long list.
- Share your ideas and solutions. Whether it’s on the job or at a networking event, it’s good to give first. People appreciate those who contribute, and it says something very positive about your teamwork skills…without having to mention them!
- Give your elevator pitch to the mirror, introduce yourself to your spouse, rehearse interview questions and answers aloud. The more comfortable you feel about what you’re saying, the less awkward you’ll feel. Practice gives you confidence.
- Find mentors. At your job and in network events, keep an eye out for someone with more experience who you feel you can like and respect. Make the effort to make a connection with them, and then continue to reach out in a way that’s comfortable. Email them once in a while, let them know of a job opening up that might fit their skills, take them out for lunch or coffee every few months. Even if you move on to another job or city, keep in touch. Someone who has a longstanding connection with you and can speak to your skills and experience is valuable. They can brag about you, so you don’t have to!
- Promote your brand online. Online interactions are often easier for introverts. Make your bigger effort online if that’s easier for you. You’ll still need to do some in-person networking, but your online reputation can lay the groundwork for you if you have established yourself as an expert in your field online.
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