Guest Post by Kathy Marie Howell
“I have to be alone very often. I’d be perfectly happy if I spent Saturday night until Monday morning alone in my apartment. That’s how I refuel.” Audrey Hepburn
Have you ever thought you enjoy being by yourself more that you enjoy being with others? Are you exhausted after a day at work and all you want to do is go home to a nice quiet place? Have you ever thought, how can I be successful in network marketing if I don’t even like being around people for very long?
The definition of an introvert from the Merriam-Webster dictionary is someone who has to turn inward or in upon itself: as
a : to concentrate or direct upon oneself
b : to produce psychological introversion in
As someone who has struggled with being an introverted network marketer for many years, I would like to share some tips that I have found to be helpful. I know I am not alone in my thoughts and would love to hear from other introverted network marketers. Can you relate to what I have to say? What do you find helpful?
# 1 It’s not about you
It’s not about me. If you’re in networking, you should say this every day. It takes the pressure off so that you can put your efforts where they belong, on serving others. Most people get caught up in their own world and forget about why they said yes to owning their own business in the first place. Don’t be that person.
# 2 Be selective in your friendships
As an introvert, you only have so much energy before you have to find solitude to recharge. Choose relationships where you are comfortable to be yourself. Have those conversations that are necessary to clarify your needs. Quality over quantity every time!
# 3 Plan and be well prepared
From my experience, introverts tend to stress out about events. They want to go and know they need to go, but there is always a part of them that wants to stay home. Planning and preparation can mean the difference between a good day and a bad day. Sometimes even an exit plan can be beneficial. The key to success is to do the work, show up, and don’t fret over the outcome.
# 4 Participate in a mastermind group
Collaborate. All network marketers should be involved with a mastermind group, but it is especially important for introverted networkers. The tendency is to withdraw, so when you are committed to participating on a higher level, it benefits everyone. Introverts tend to have an advantage because when they speak, people listen.
# 5 Recharge often and completely unplug
In today’s society we are expected to be on more than ever before. Instant messaging, 24 hour a day emails, and calls taken on the road are the norm instead of the exception, which makes it harder for an introvert to find solitude. Figure out what works best for you and then schedule a time to completely unwind. Set business hours and let your team know that you are unavailable after those hours. Turn off the phone, turn off the computer and take a few minutes for yourself every day.
# 6 Seek leaders who are extroverts
Some people love to be in the limelight and it’s okay if you aren’t one of them! Look for people who match your values but are comfortable in a crowd. It’s the yin and yang of networking that will help you on your road to success.
# 7 Use online meetings
Sometimes it just easier to be in front of a computer screen instead of absorbing other people’s energy at an event. People love to connect and this is a great option in the digital age. This technology is growing and is excepted, and even welcomed by most people. I consider online meeting to be a huge time and sanity saver!
# 8 Texting brings your business to life
This is another growing technological advancement that people are embracing and it works especially well for introverted network marketers. Very few people read emails anymore with most people skimming through them if you are lucky. Texting is a great option for sharing information to your prospects as well as your team mates.
# 9 Limit time in front of the room
Some people thrive on being the center of attention while introverts shy away from it. As a leader you are often expected to be in front of the room presenting. That can be challenging for anyone who is sensitive to the energy of others. It can also be a huge motivator to find leaders in your organization to do the presenting while your job is to introduce them. When you do find yourself in front of a crowd, I find using grounding techniques work really well to relieve the stress of the moment. Focus on an object in the room (other than yourself) or think of a loved one who would like to see you succeed. It helps take the focus off you long enough to accomplish what you want.
# 10 Leave the guilt
Most introverts have struggled at one time or another with feelings of guilt for not wanting to be around other people. If not left in check, guilt will destroy what you desire most in life. Give yourself permission to take a break. Find your renewed energy and come back stronger than before.
Final Thoughts
Life may seem more difficult when you are introverted but I like to think of the positive side. As someone who has evolved over the years and has embraced my introversion, I have more meaningful friendships, feel comfortable being alone and don’t need the approval of anyone to make myself feel good. I have become stronger and more independent and feel confident in my decisions.
To be successful in any business you have to be committed before anything else. Networking is simple, but not easy. It’s a skill to be learned and when you can take yourself out of the equation, it’s a lot more fun. When you have committed 100%, you will find a way to be successful.
About Kathy
Kathy Marie Howell, 49 year old mother of three married to the man of my dreams. My story just goes to show you that when you seek passion in your life, you often find solutions to help your dreams become reality. I got into the beauty industry to develop my talents and to serve others never realizing the profound effect it would have on my future.
I have found my experience as a Master Cosmetologist, specializing in health and wellness and coaching over the past 25+ years, has well prepared me to help others find their passion as well. My intuition and deep spirituality have led me to where I am today… living a life of purpose and joy.
I AM a MOMpreneur and blessed to be one. I AM a coach and a cheerleader and will be your biggest supporter. I AM here to help you navigate through our changing world with confidence. I AM here to bring innovative and new solutions to the world and it starts with an open heart and mind. I AM here for you.
To learn more, you can call or text me at (859) 494-4802 (eastern time). You can order the products on my website or you can get my free report for MOMpreneurs.
Sincerely,
Chuck Holmes
Network Marketing Professional (21+ years)
Top Recruiter & Top Rep
mrchuckholmes@gmail.com
Great article! I know that this will help many rookies and even non rookies!! Thanks!!
Glad you liked it.