This blog post by Peter Spellman originally appeared on his blog "Music Career Juice". Peter is the Director of Career Development at Berklee College of Music, and the author of several books about the music industry including "The Self-Promoting Musician" and "Indie Business Power". Self-promotion is a common struggle with artists, and we loved this article that Peter wrote addressing the issue. Enjoy!
Shy Self-Promoters
"Self promotion" isn't something we were encouraged to pursue. Even today we tell children, "Don't talk about yourself; people won't like you." Or maybe you've heard: "Don't put yourself out front; you'll show up your little brother;" and, "People don't like show-offs." Subtle but powerful messages.
And then there's "networking". Do you get that hollow feeling in your gut whenever you're told that networking is the key to building your music career? Does it all sound to you a bit slimy and manipulative? It probably makes you feel like you're putting on an act - not really being yourself, right?
Those of a more shy and introverted nature have the most trouble with these career imperatives. In general, introverts are quiet, reflective and reserved. They re-charge alone and prefer one on one conversation to the crowd. Combine this natural disposition with those early messages about not promoting yourself, and a distaste for "working the room," and you have a guaranteed recipe for failure in a world that rewards big mouths and the hyper-connected.
As a result, introverts feel inadequate, underconnected - even guilty. They end up thinking it's necessary to choose between remaining obscure or sounding obnoxious, forgetting that maybe, just maybe, there is a creative middle ground.
Here are a few ideas to help with finding that middle ground for yourself:
. First, shed the useless negative self-talk ("You have nothing to offer," "You'll make a fool of yourself," "You can't, you can't, you can't."). Hey, if you want to really evolve, then accept the fact adulthood is mainly about de-programming/re-programming yourself. Whether you think you can or you think you can't, you're right. As Wayne Dyer is wont to say, "When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change". Truer words have never been spoken. Start saying, "I think I can."
. Every day remind yourself of four things: your name, your title, your responsibilities, and the positive things you are accomplishing right now for others and, if relevant, for your company. You have a lot to offer and a lot of value to bring. Figure out what that is and remind yourself about it everyday. Affirmations help.
. Create a game plan with snack-sized goals. Approach networking functions somewhat strategically, creating a meaningful connection with 1-2 people, going off to recharge, then jumping in the fray once again.
. The brave new world of social networking affords a fear-free door. Working your blog or even email messages allow a tempo and pace even introverts thrive in. Find ways to connect using your passion and creativity. For example, on LinkedIn within groups you can post a question or start a discussion or identify something you feel is newsworthy.
. Try partnering with someone (an extrovert) that complements your strengths and see what kind of project or even business idea may emerge.
. Be inspired by great company: Bach, Debussy, Einstein, Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. were all shy and introverted, as are Michael Jordan, Bob Dylan and Meryl Streep. It need not hold you back.
Accept your natural disposition and lead with your strengths.
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