Art Marketing is Not Just For Extroverts

A question came up after reading "3 Simple Questions to Start Your Day":

"I understand the concept of conversations, building relationships, trust etc.  Most of these marketing strategies rely on exposure and extroversion. What advise might you give to an artist who is NOT an extrovert, salesperson, or even remotely out "working the crowd." An artist who lives in an area removed from cultural opportunities, venues and potential buyers?  Just thinking about this conundrum. Any comments would be greatly appreciated! Thank you for the insightful, encouraging, and practical advice you send in your newsletter! I have been enjoying it for several months now."

Sincerely, LL

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Dear LL:
 
Good news. You don't need a personality transplant to market your art. You don't have to be extroverted to have conversations. And, thanks to technology, you don't have to move.

Extroverts draw energy from being around others. Extroverts process their thoughts and feelings "out loud." Being alone too much can deplete their energy.
 
Introverts can be out in public but prefer their inner world. Introverts watch and listen to make sense of life. Engaging in "cocktail party chatter" can be a stretch.
 
Extroverts are not all the life of the party. Introverts are not all reclusive or shy. We each have the capacity to modify our preferences. I know. I am an introvert with good social skills. But I carefully balance how much time I am "out there" and make sure I have quiet time to regroup.

I coached artist Valerie Edwards on how to handle both social and geographic distance. She lives on the top of a mountain 4 1/2 hours from the 220 galleries in Santa Fe.

"My greatest obstacle was to learn to market my work without fear. Art galleries, publishers, clients, newspaper reporters, all the questions, art receptions; talking about my work with strangers, being the center of attention, it was overwhelming. The A.C.T. TeleClasses helped me to break all this down in easy to follow steps, and gave me the opportunity to ask questions and get answers from those with experience. I learned fear was only a result of my ignorance.

"Aletta's insightfulness in our telephone coaching sessions helped me to face my social anxiety. Her recommendations of books to read helped me understand that this is a common fear. (Otherwise, why would there be so many books on the subject!) She walked me through it, giving me sample social situations and verbal replies for guests at my first reception. She made me feel comfortable. When 'show time' arrived, I talked non-stop for two hours and sold a painting for $1,000.00!"

According to Laurie Helgoe, in "Introvert Power", more than 57% of Americans are actually more introverted than extroverted. Feel better now?

You can do this too! Just take it one step at a time.

P.P.S. Please join my Facebook Fan Page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Artist-Career-Training/166235407531