One of the things I noticed right away when I started my business was that it was much easier to be outgoing and social online than it was in real life. I could do things at my own pace, sit back and watch for a while before jumping in, and I generally felt in control. Contrast that to a live social situation where anything can happen – I could forget someone’s name, draw a blank when someone asks me a question or spill my drink on a new acquaintance when I go to shake their hand.
I’ve learned over the years that I’m not alone. There are lots of introverts who describe themselves as extroverts online, and introverts IRL, or in real life. My guest, Morgan Barnhart of Sociable Boost, gives us some insights to help us bridge the divide.
Comedians often highlight the absurd truths in society, and introvert – yes, introvert – Jerry Seinfeld is especially skilled at shining the light on our contradictory natures. Here’s what he has to say about public speaking: “According to most studies, people’s number one fear is public speaking. Number two is death. Death is number two. Does that sound right? This means to the average person, if you go to a funeral, you’re better off in the casket than doing the eulogy.”
The fear of public speaking is called Glossophobia, which comes from the Greek glossa, meaning tongue, and phobos, fear or dread. My guest for this podcast, Jonathan Bender, has dedicated his business to changing the way people – especially introverts and glossophobes – think about themselves and being on stage and in the spotlight.
“If you want it done right, do it yourself.”
The words of an introvert, me thinks!
Introverts and independence go hand-in-hand. It doesn’t mean that other people aren’t important to us; we simply are more deliberate and even cautious about who we invite into our inner world. A recent conversation with a professional singer and self-professed introvert reminded me of why we will sometimes do *anything* to find a solution to a challenge, other than ask another person for help.
For some of us, putting ourselves in a situation where we have to reveal our dreams, fears and triumphs to our peers is taking a huge risk, even if we value the learning that might result. It’s incredibly important to feel safe if we’re going to share what we usually keep inside, especially regarding our entrepreneurial aspirations. In today’s podcast, Cheri Ruskus of Victory Circles introduces us to a tool – the mastermind process – that provides a powerful way to create that safety so that you can make meaningful connections with others while strengthening your business.
Are you making the most of your LinkedIn profile? Or did you set it up ages ago and have to blow the dust off the URL each time you come back? I’ve decided to make 2012 “The Year of LinkedIn.” LinkedIn is a fabulous treasure trove of connections and resources. I thought for the longest time that it was primarily for job seekers. My guest for this podcast, Matt Youngquist of Career Horizons (http://www.career-horizons.com), sets me straight on that point. He shares ways that both the seeker and the entrepreneur can leverage LinkedIn for stronger relationships and stronger businesses.
