5 tips for introverted doulas

There's a false belief out there in the doula and small business world that you need to be extroverted to run a thriving business.
 
 You've heard it before...warm chatting, networking, business meetings, hustle, hustle, hustle every minute.

That just isn't the way that an introvert works best! 
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Let's talk about how to run your business especially if you consider yourself an introvert.
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Be Yourself at Networking Events

We hear a lot of talk about "fake it 'till you make it" and while that can and does resonate with some people, it's not what I'm talking about here.  I'm also not saying you should vomit birth all over everyone at a networking event. Save that for doula gatherings.

You do not need a completely different persona when you network your doula business. Be your best true authentic self at events. Great networking events are more about 

Regularly Schedule Downtime

As an introvert, you know you need time to yourself to recharge. Make it a priority to schedule that time into your calendar. Pushing yourself and constant hustle until you crash, won't get you anywhere faster. Recovery from a crash usually takes longer than the slow and steady approach to business building.

Use Social Media

Social media can be a life saver for introvert business owners! Your social media accounts can showcase your amazing business, without you being in the spotlight. Stay at home in your jammies and post away. Most social media platforms also have a scheduling option. Use this handy feature when you plan your downtime.

Prepare Yourself for Events

OK, so you are actually going out to meet with PEOPLE! Prepare yourself for this. Have some conversation starters already planned out. Check out the event venue online, so you know all the details ahead of time....where to park, what door to enter, etc. Arrive early, so that the room slowly fills around you, rather than walking into an already filled room. Have an exit plan in place to use if you get too overwhelmed. Then, plan for downtime afterwards!

Use Your Gifts

Everyone has unique gifts including introverts! Spend some time figuring out exactly what they might be for you. Maybe you are an amazing listener. That's an amazing skill for networking. Many times people think networking is all about getting YOUR INFORMATION to as many people as possible, when really, you want to listen to others and learn about them and help them with a problem. Maybe you are great at reading a room. This is a huge skill to use at networking events. Scan the room and look for friendly people to talk to. You'll be the first to know when someone really isn't interested in chatting and you can move along to a more friendly face.

Guard Your Yes

Introverts can also be people pleasers who take on too much to make other's happy.  Guard you're yeses. If you are fully committed to the favor that someone is asking, let them know you'll have to check your calendar and get back with them. Never say YES on the spot. Take some time and think over the ask to determine if it's a good fit for you, whether you really have the time to complete the ask, and if it's something you will value doing.

You Are Allowed to Change Your Mind

And a bonus tip. Even if you agree to anything from a networking lunch to a committee position, you can change your mind. It's best to change your mind on big commitments early on because people are counting on you, but a simple event or lunch can be canceled the day of the event. A simple text or message saying that something has come up and you aren't able to make it, is enough. There's no need for a long story.

Good luck! You CAN do networking events as long as you are prepared!

Love, 
​Deb