Express Writers

#ContentWritingChat Recap: Succeeding as a Creative, Introverted Entrepreneur with Kim Beasley

by | May 7, 2021 | ContentWritingChat

Content Writing Chat recap

For this month’s chat, we wanted to do something a little different to our normal topics.

We decided to chat about what it means to be an introvert and a business owner.

After all, it seems so many people in the entrepreneurial community these days are actually introverts. Knowing it was something many people could relate to, we had to talk about it on #ContentWritingChat.

We talked about struggles that introverts face, how they can effectively use social media, and even how they can build a thriving online business. Let’s dive into the tips!

#ContentWritingChat Recap: Succeeding as a Creative, Introverted Entrepreneur with Kim Beasley

Our guest host for this month’s chat was Kim Beasley. Kim coaches fellow introvert entrepreneurs and guides them to growing their online businesses to success. She’s actually written a book all about the topic, called The Creative Introverted Entrepreneur.

Q1: What do you think it means to be both a creative and introverted entrepreneur?

Before we dive into all the awesome tips, let’s first covert what it means to be creative and introverted as an entrepreneur. Here’s how some of our chat participants defined it:

To put it simply, it’s someone who has a creative mind, identifies as an introvert, and has a business of some kind.

When you’re an introverted entrepreneur, you need to consider how that comes into play in your business so you can plan your day-to-day and run your company in a way that feels good.

As Carla said, having that personal space is key when you’re an introvert. You’ll need to make sure you prioritize time to yourself to rest and recharge.

Q2: What advice would you personally give to those who are introverts and running an online business?

It’s important to make your business work for you, so you’ll want to factor in your unique personality when it comes to how you’re showing up online. Here’s some advice for all those introverts out there:

Kim encourages introverts to become more confident in putting themselves out there online through mediums like social media. It’s key in generating more exposure for your business. She also suggests utilizing email marketing. That’s a fantastic way to stay in touch with your audience over an extended period of time, always bringing them back to your work and what you do.

Michelle feels that networking online is really beneficial for introverts. Instead of attending in-person events, they can make connections without ever having to leave the comfort of their own home. Not only that, but when they’re ready to step away, all they have to do is shut down the computer.

Rachel knows that there are so many ways to put yourself out there and show your personality online. As she said, you can do this in small doses, which is perfect for those just starting out and getting comfortable with being a public figure on the web.

Shawn’s advice of finding safe places for conversations is spot on. Figure out where you’re comfortable and make that your priority. After all, it’s your business and you get to do what feels right to you.

At the end of the day, it’s all about doing what works for you and saying no to what doesn’t. Just don’t forget to factor in that all-important downtime to recharge.

Q3 for Kim: What is the focus of your book, Creative Introverted Entrepreneur?
For everyone: How does being an introvert or an extrovert factor into your business?

For this question, we asked Kim to share a little bit about her book. And we invited all of our other participants to share their thoughts on how being an introvert (or an extrovert) comes into play within business. Here are some responses:

In Kim’s book, she shares her own journey of how she overcame the fear of being seen online. This is a common fear that many people have, so it’s amazing when others share that they’ve experienced the same. Kim was able to conquer that fear and begin building a business she loves.

As an introvert, Julia was able to build the Express Writers brand through the power of writing. Sure, she makes YouTube videos now that she’s overcome her fears of being on camera, but writing is her main focus.

Michelle feels that she relies on both her introvert and extrovert sides.The introvert side allows her to do things completely on her own, while the extroverted side loves to connect with prospects and clients over video.

It sounds like Carla has thrived being an introvert with the current state of the world. She’s been able to spend more time by herself, just focusing on content creation.

Rachel knows the importance of balancing that energy. She shows up and gives her all, but takes time away from social media afterwards so she’s able to recharge and regain her energy after giving so much.

Q4 for Kim: What are some key factors from the book that can help introverted entrepreneurs?
For everyone: What are some struggles you think are common for introverts? And for extroverts?

Here, Kim shared some of the key points in her book, while everyone else chimed in on some of the common struggles that introverts (or extroverts) face in life and business:

In Kim’s book, she talks about facing your fears, understanding yourself as an introvert, and even using social media and building your business. If that sounds like something you need, definitely check it out.

Julia knows that being a little camera shy is often a big struggle for introverts. Her advice is to take it step-by-step and avoid putting unnecessary pressure on yourself.

By taking those baby steps often, you’ll begin to get even more comfortable doing the things that make you nervous. That’s why practice is key, so keep at it!

Q5: As an introverted entrepreneur, what are ways that you have found to overcome your fears of being online?

Putting yourself out there online can sometimes be a little scary. To face your fears and become confident showing up on various platforms, keep this advice in mind:

Kim’s advice is to focus on self-care and self-talk. These are two key areas to direct your attention so you can crush those fears and limiting beliefs that stand in your way.

Because guess what? The thoughts you think about yourself are impacting you more than you realize. That’s why you need to be aware of what you say to yourself and remember that you have something important to share with the world.

Julia agrees that it’s all about identifying your limiting beliefs and taking the steps to break through them.

Lori knows that shutting out that judgement is essential here. Don’t ever think that being an introvert is a disadvantage.

This is great advice from Carla. Practicing in front of the camera (or the mirror) will help you get more comfortable with speaking. And don’t forget to come prepared with notes!

Q6: What are key ways that introverted entrepreneurs can grow their business online using social media?

As an introvert, there are some fun ways you can use social media within your business. Here are some great suggestions that you can implement:

Kim’s advice is to figure out where your target audience hangs out online and begin spending time there. Engage with new people frequently. Find people you look up to as mentors and talk to them. Reach out to others in your industry who can become friends. And of course, spend time connecting with potential clients too.

Of course, the first step in your success is to identify the right social media platforms to invest time into. You want to be where your audience is and use the platforms that play to your strengths. Then, it’s all about showing up consistently and sharing great content.

Use social media as a way to get to know your audience better. Listen to what they’re talking about and what they need help with. Doing this will help you to spot ways you can serve them.

Q7: How can introverted entrepreneurs use collaborative partnerships to grow their business?

After all, the right partnership can yield some pretty impressive results! Here’s how you can make the most of any collaborations you do:

As Kim said, partnerships can help you gain exposure to a much wider audience. You’ll be able to cross-promote and reach their social media followers, their email list subscribers, etc. It just might open you up to a world of potential new buyers.

If partnerships are something you’re interested in, keep Julia’s advice in mind. Work with those who are like-minded. Turn away anyone who isn’t a good fit.

When doing partnerships, it helps to play up your strengths. Find ways to allow each of you to really shine and stand out when working together.

And as Zala said, we don’t have to do everything ourselves. Working with other people can help you achieve the results you desire much faster.

Q8: What are ways that an introverted entrepreneur can grow their brand online?

And finally, we wrapped up the chat by sharing some additional tips that introverted entrepreneurs need to know. Here’s some wisdom from the chat:

Kim suggests trying out video content to promote your business. Consider creating YouTube videos or using Instagram Stories or IGTV. You can even spend time live-streaming if that feels exciting! But if video isn’t your thing, the audio-only Twitter Spaces is definitely worth trying.

Rachel’s advice is to open up and be vulnerable. Share your bearings and struggles. This helps to humanize your brand and makes you more relatable. That will really help you connect with your audience.

How would you like to join the next #ContentWritingChat? Mark your calendars for the first Tuesday of every month at 10 AM Central Time. Then, follow @ExpWriters and @writingchat to stay updated!

Tags: entrepreneurship