The spotlight on the Solopreneur is a bright one! They are the face of the business. Introverts have a hard time being the center of attention. This is just not in our nature. However, as an introvert, this can be challenging. I am an introvert. I enjoy talking and working with people, but much prefer to be in the background in a supporting role.
Being an Introvert
With the spotlight on me, I can be assertive while in the meeting or call. Talking to “sell” myself to a new client is fine if I can talk about bookkeeping or data analysis. To talk about myself is difficult or slightly uncomfortable. My comfort level begins to grow when talking about Bookkeeping, QuickBooks Online, or Data Analysis. Of course, I need downtime after the meeting or call even for just 5 to 10 minutes. Breathe!
When I put together my website, Monmouth Virtual Solutions, I was told a picture of me should be posted. Yikes! No way! I did it though and I’m glad. It shows my clients and potential clients that I am real. This is the same reaction when I had to talk about me, my life, and my career. Again, this description told of my path to becoming a Virtual Assistant and my commitment to helping Solopreneurs grow their businesses.
Sharing the spotlight as a team member is important to me, but leadership is not really my forte. I was a Scout leader for many years and enjoyed it for the most part. With the younger scouts, the other leaders ran the meeting while I assisted individual scouts. As the scouts got older, they started to run the meetings with assistance from the leaders. In the corporate world, I would pride myself on being an integral part of the team, but not often run the meetings. I support Solopreneurs in their business but don’t run the business for them.
I wrote “I am quiet but a force.” when contacted a potential client. This says a lot about my personality. However, in a meeting, my “voice” would sometimes not be heard. I prefer to email my notes and thoughts which gives me time to organize and gather all the needed information. The spotlight on the solopreneur is important when modifications or out-of-the-box thinking applies.
General Rules for spotlight on the solopreneur
When working with an introvert, have patience. They may not have the energy to attend the evening session of a conference. Give an introvert a little time to respond. By being quiet, they may be formulating ideas or just absorbing the meeting. Introverts often make good entrepreneurs because they have the focus, persistence, and creativity required to keep a business going when things get tough.
Remember the spotlight on the solopreneur does not apply to all. If the idea of working with an introvert appeal to you, send us a private message or contact us at Monmouth Virtual Solutions.
