Calling all introverts! Calling all introverts! Despite misconceptions, there is power in being an introvert. Let me briefly breakdown psychologist Carl G. Jung’s definition of introvertism and extrovertism and explain how you can utilize your personality trait for brand building.

First things first—we are not shy! For us introverts, we’re in a constant state of energy maintenance. We need to balance the conservation and use of our energy, so our brand reflects our best selves. We’re the reflective folks who rely on our inner monologue to navigate the world. This compass is contrasted by the ones used by our extroverted/ extroverted friends, who need constant conversations and stimulation to help shape and make sense of the world. They gain understanding from actions taken outside of the self, unlike us introverts, who need to think before we do.

For us introverts, too much stimulation creates stress, which is why many of us are phobic of small talk. However in this extroverted world, we can’t let others miss the power of our introverted brand. Don’t let others mistake our poker face aka deep thinking demeanor for being withdrawn. Instead, we need to communicate our strengths to our beloved extroverts. Bottom line: People are different, and that’s okay! Let’s leverage this to make magic happen.

An Introvert’s Essentials

If you’re a “look before you leaper,” take note of  these overall tips for your personal and business branding:

1. Don’t hide your light. Nod or smile to reaffirm others that we get them … because we really do!
2. Don’t over schedule yourself if you can help it. If needed and possible, manage upwards, down the chain, or vertically to try to control your time and avoid being overwhelmed.
3. Don’t mistake your delayed reactions as a weakness. Use self-reflection to showcase your crafty written abilities, insight for leading and action taking, and overall creativity.

Public Speaking and Broadcasting Tips

If you’re thinking about broadcasting your brand through streaming video or public speaking, have no fear! This may not be the most comfortable space for you, but here are five tips to help your brand to shine.

1. Play music beforehand to get yourself in the right mental space. This can be uptempo beats or tranquil sounds.
2. Meditate and/or pray to calm your nerves and reflect upon the actions you are about to take, or to simply clear your head for guidance.
3. Write an outline/script of what you are going to say, so you remain on track with your message.
4. Practice makes perfect. It’s a cliché, but it is for a good reason.
5. Be yourself—Be RAW BRANDED®! Don’t try to be like our beloved extroverts. It’ll come across as phony. You’ll be surprised by how many people (prospective clients, employees, partners, and bosses) will be attracted to you … just for you!

I break down these five tips in my video (above). If you need more details on defining introvertism, I recommend the following books (below are affiliated links):

• Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain – This is a good, recent read which easily defines introvertism and its strengths.
• The Introvert Advantage: How to Thrive in an Extrovert World by Dr. Marti Olsen Laney – My first book on introvertism that I also recommend.

If you’re still unsure of what category you fall under (and yes, it is possible to overlap), take Psychology Today‘s Extroversion Introversion Test. You can also check out the Myers Briggs’ Personality Type Indicator, which was created by Isabel Briggs Myers and her mother, Katharine Briggs, based on the theories of psychologist Carl G. Jung and includes 16 personality types. This will give you some insight into your personality traits.

FYI—I am an INFJ aka “the advocate or counselor,” which is perhaps why I enjoy helping others to leverage their strengths.

What’s your personality type? Your trait may inform ideal ways to manage your business or personal brand. Chime in below or follow me on Twitter, Periscope, and Instagram at @reneewalkerraw.

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