Seattle-area Introverts and Biznik Virgins

I have an introvert friendly event coming up and promise to make it comfortable for all you shy folks out there. I call it Reluctant Selling.

Although I may have to rename it as a Reluctant Event, for lack of attendance.

I was originally inspired by Leila and this thread to create an event to help other indies that feel this way. Now my big challenge is how to reach out and be a part of the solution. I've always thought of myself as an extrovert but I'm really a closet introvert masquerading as an extro. I can relate and want to share some of the ways I've confronted it.

If you are too shy to RSVP in front of everyone, send me a private message and I'll create a space for you.

I'm an introvert by nature, too! I dislike loud bars, and really prefer to be by myself at home. But if there were a quieter arena for us introverts to meet up and quietly share our stories and ideas, I'd be up for it.

Hi Leila, I would be very interested in attending such an event. I am struggling to overcome the very issues you have described, so this could be an interesting challenge wrapped in a pleasant occasion. Thank you, Kelly

I am and I am. I was wondering when this thing would get going again; but I was too shy to say anything ;-)

I like!

I like having something to do. To fiddle with. Like bracelet making.

Hi Leila,

It is a rich topic! I typically hold events for 6 or less people, because the capacity for intimacy and sharing seems directly relational to the groups being small, by necessity. And these groups create for me unforgettable contacts and a feeling of being able to discuss to the core of whatever the topic is. Ideally, if money were no problem, my ideal venue would be a small dinner party. Transferrred to the Biznik types of venues, that seems highly improbable and cost prohibitive. At my housing center in Bothell, we have access to a movie theater for 8! A quiet room, naturally dark---am thinking of hosting a few events there! Introvert's delight? We'll see. I was born & reared as an introvert, and actually manifest as both 'e' and 'i'!

Thanks for exploring this.

Andrew

Leila... Here's a idea, or maybe the realization of an evolution of experience.

I regularly host Greet Eat and Meet networking luncheons. (BTW... Andrew Delany inspired me to change the name from Just Eat and Meet about a year ago.) The format has evolved to meeting as a group (when larger than 3 or 4) and sharing a "Shameless Brag" (the Greet part), then splitting up into small groups of 3-4 to (Eat and Meet).

I have found this to be very effective for both the Intros and the Extros. If Intros are lurking out there, and following this thread without showing yourself, here's an idea for you.

Drop-in to one of my Greet Eat and Meets, even without RSVPing if you desire, and arrive about a half-hour late so you don't have to do the "Shameless Brag" in front of the group. Just drop me a personal note to let me know you are coming, and I will save a spot for you at one of the 4-top tables. That way, you can feel more comfortable with a small group that is part of a larger group.

Try it... It might surprise you. ...Howard

Thank you for your article. As you know, when we are young and unaware of why we are so shy and why we feel we often don't fit in with others, it can be very confusing and hurtful. If I only knew when I was younger that I was an INFJ, and an I with a 1 rating, and what that meant, it would have helped me understand so many things, and helped me make many different decisions. Thank you for talking about this subject and hopefully you can reach many young intraverts & help them understand.

I've spent many years of my life as an introvert and then I got over it for the most part. Now I'm a major networker. Hitting 50 seems to help! Being an introvert has it's advantages. We take in a lot!

What I really wanted to mention is that I know a person who has started a business to help people who want to get clients and network but they are "too" shy! She speaks with you one to one to determine who your ideal client is and then finds them and will connect you with them! She is a natural networker and as she says, she likes to talk so she'll be glad to do the talking for you! She's an amazing person who I really think anyone would be comfortable around. She is a very gentle and caring person. I will get back online with you when I get the best information from her as how to contact her.

I referred earlier to a new business that has been started for those who are too shy to network! Her name is Valerie Thibert and her new business venture is called Network of Dreams, her website isn't up yet, but you can contact her now through www.womenofourcommunity.com which is another venture of hers. She is a very kind and thoughtful person and very capable. She will talk with you one to one to determine who your ideal clientele is and find them for you. She might be a good speaker for everyone!

Janis