For those who are energised by solitude, visibility might seem like a contradiction.
Why do we need to be visible? Why can’t we hide away, comfortable in our space and do our thing?
These days it’s much simpler to start a business. All you need is a computer, the internet and an idea or offering — well there’s more to it than that, but you get the idea.
More and more people become self-employed every day, especially introverts, who are drawn by the prospect of working from home by themselves.
The downside? There’s far more competition.
So how can you stand out? What makes your service different?
It’s you.
You are what makes your business unique, your skills, your knowledge, your experiences and your personality.
People Buy From People
If you provide a product or service based on your expertise and knowledge, then you are your business.
To stand out, you need to be visible. You need to be seen, heard and to become known.
Being visible will raise your profile, help build authority and trust, so you become that go-to person.
For introverts, this is the hard part.
We tend to shy away from the spotlight and feel safer hiding behind a business name and logo.
So what can you do to be more visible?
What is Your Purpose for Being Visible?
Why is it important to you?
Your first thoughts might be to get more clients or to create more opportunities.
What I want you to think about is your purpose for starting your business — the deeper meaning and the core reason you do what you do.
Your purpose is bigger than you.
It’s what will push you out of your comfort zone and help you show up, even when it seems like the hardest thing in the world.
Visibility Goals for Introverts in Business
Armed with your purpose and with the passion for what you do, it’s time to get visible.
To show up consistently, you need a plan. Setting manageable goals will help keep you on track.
Choose goals that work to your strengths, that are relevant and achievable to you. Here are seven goals you could achieve this year.
1. Write One Guest Blog Every Month
For most introverts, writing is one of their superpowers. As we spend more time reading, pondering and reflecting, writing is a great way to communicate our thoughts.
Tasks to get started:
- Start by researching the publications and website that your target audience read.
- Look for guest blog submission guidelines on their website. You can often find a link in the footer.
- Do your research. Read past articles and ensure they cover topics relevant to you.
- Propose a new perspective or idea that hasn’t featured on the website before.
2. Feature as a Guest on Podcasts Every Month
Being a podcast guest is another excellent way to get in front of new audiences.
Guest interviews are a popular format for podcasts. Hosts will feature experts to discuss relevant topics, issues and opinions that relate to their audience.
Tasks to get started:
- Find podcasts that your ideal audience listen to. You can do this by searching for a keyword on iTunes Podcasts or Google.
- Research by listening to podcasts that discuss topics you could contribute to.
- Write a pitch – Keep it short and to the point.
- Explain your area of expertise, how you could add value to the podcast providing a solution to a problem the audience has or sharing a new perspective or approach on an industry topic.
3. Record a Video for Social Media Every Week
If you’re a bit camera shy, this one may not be for you. But don’t discount it until you’ve given it your best shot.
Sitting and talking to a camera can feel… awkward.
I don’t know about you, but I stumble over words or completely freeze up.
There’s tons of advice and tips on recording videos, but the best method to get you started is from content marketers Andrew and Pete.
They suggest you write a script and record each line, one by one. These are then edited to create one seamless video.
If you struggle with editing, you could find someone to do this for you on sites like Fiverr or Upwork.
Tasks to get you started:
- Consider where you want to share your videos; YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook etc.
- Research your topic and write a word for word script.
- Record each line one by one, stop and start as much as you need.
- Edit your clips together or find someone to do this for you.
- Don’t forget to add captions before you publish!
4. Speak at a Conference or Event
Introverts and extroverts struggle with this one. If the thought of speaking to a crowd causes you to break out into a sweat, the best thing to do is start small.
Work your way towards more larger and more prominent events. One goal for me this year is to speak at TEDx.
The great thing about the TEDx events is that they provide you with training and help you create your talk.
Tasks to Get Started:
- Find a local event with smaller numbers.
- Decide your talk style. It could be to share your story with an underlining message or provide actionable advice.
- Write out your talk and create a slideshow as a prompt.
- Then practice, practice, practice! This is the best way to get over that fear.
5. Host a Monthly Workshop
This one might take a bit more planning, but once you’ve created a suitable format, you could repeat it every month.
Compared to a speaking event, a workshop would be more hands-on and allow the audience to participate.
Tasks to get started:
- Figure out your topic but don’t guess, ask your audience what they need help with.
- Find a suitable venue and book a date.
- Create your workshop with slides, activities and handouts.
- Practice! If you feel unsure about any elements, then practice them with friends and family.
- Decide if you will charge or use it as a way to promote a package or programme. Create an event on Eventbrite or Facebook.
- Promote your event on social media and in-person.
6. Host a Monthly Webinar
Webinars are a bit like speaking at an event or hosting a workshop, just from the comfort of your own home. Sounds perfect for an Introvert!
Webinars provide value and help grow your email list. They can also be used to promote a special offer for a package or programme.
Once you have a practical webinar, you could host it again and again with no extra work. You could also record it and create an automated evergreen webinar.
Tasks to get started:
- Decided where and how you will host your webinar.
- Choose your topic, again ask your audience what they want.
- Find a suitable venue and book a date.
- Create your webinar slides.
- Practice and get familiar with the technology.
- Set up your email sign up page and autoresponders with time and link.
- Promote your event on social media and in-person.
- Set up reminder emails to go out the day before and just before the webinar.
- Make sure to record the webinar and send out a replay link.
7. Go to a Two Networking Events Every Month
Networking can be quite a daunting prospect for introverts who get anxious in social situations.
The worst part for me is initiating conversation and following a fast-paced group discussion. Standing up in front of a large group can also be scary if you don’t feel prepared.
Tasks to get started:
- Find a smaller, less formal event where there is no pressure to speak in front of a group.
- The most common question is “What do you do?”, so make sure you prepare a brief introduction and practice it ahead of time.
- Arrange to meet up with the host before or ask a friend to accompany you.
- Wear something to break the ice and pay attention to what others are wearing – complimenting someone is a great way to start a conversation.
Choose Your Goals
You’ll want to choose the goals to suit you. Work to your strengths and consider how much time you will need for each one. Don’t take on too much!
Block out time to do the individual tasks for each goal so you know you will have the time to do it all.
If you’re a procrastinator and overthinker like me, then breaking them down into daily tasks will help you progress.
Also, set no negotiable deadlines. Book in the date to host your workshop, pay to attend a networking event, scheduled the podcast interview. If you have a deadline to work to you won’t be able to find distractions.
