Are Introverts Better Fundraisers?
Attention all you introverted marketer/fundraisers out there. You’re vindicated. It’s not true that you don’t like people. Or you’re a bunch of aloof nerds.
OK, well some of you might be!
Here from Max Kalehoff at OnlineSpin is a list of ten common attributes of introverted people that he believes should actually make them (us?) better marketers and fundraisers.
- They may shy from small talk, but passionately engage in meaningful, relevant topics.
[I say: Passion is OK, unless it leads to dense communications.] - They reserve their energy for interacting when it really matters, with key people.
[OK, if ‘key’ means that energy is directed at donors, and not the Board.] - They cut to the chase, avoid BS and seek honesty.
[That I admire in any person.] - They’re incredibly loyal and authentic.
[Great, if they can communicate authentically.] - They immerse themselves in experiences, observe and interpret them quickly.
[Yep, I can see how this helps.] - They’re able to shut off the world and focus on solutions to meaningful problems, in a world that is getting more complex and distracting.
[Who can argue with focus?] - They’re driven by insights, and not afraid to zig when everyone else zags.
[Maybe more inclined to be innovative?] - They complement observation and logic by looking inward to their emotions and subconscious for inspiration and solutions — a core human survival mechanism, albeit misunderstood.
[In touch with emotions … excellent fundraising trait.] - They’re able to be happy and energized without external stimulation.
[This one I get: Who cares if my boss doesn’t understand or support me?!] - They’re creative problem solvers.
[Take that, you plodding extroverts!]
That was fun.
Max says: “As a marketer, I must underscore that the unique characteristics of introverts make them especially suited for marketing, where focus, clarity, introspection, trust, authenticity, creativity and meaningful relationships rule.”
But I think this is a more mixed bag than Max does.
My advice? Make sure you have both introverts and extroverts on your team!
Tom
6 responses to “Are Introverts Better Fundraisers?”
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This is definitely a thought provoking article. I never would have thought that a introverted person would do so well with nonprofits. In all of my nonprofit based classes I’ve been taught you need to be outgoing. But this post makes complete sense. In examining my own habits, I often tend to listen to introverts more because they tend to be more observant and more straightforward. You rarely have to guess whether an introverted person is being truthful and honest because they don’t talk just to hear themselves speak. I think people in general are weary of pushy people because they don’t know what exactly they’re trying to scam them into. Straightforward people find it easier to build trust and credibility even if they don’t always tell donors what they want to hear. People respect honesty. I do however agree that there needs to be a mixed group of introverts and extroverts, but extroverts should be reminded not to be too pushy and to always give honest straightforward answers instead of roudnabout answers.
Introvert here. While I don’t think introverts like myself make “better” marketers, I typically find myself having in-depth, personal conversations with people at social events and fundraisers. I’m *terrible* at “mingling” and talking to everyone at an event, but the conversations I have often lead to personal connections. In any environment, you’re going to need a little of the “mingle” and a little of the “heart to heart” to make things successful.
Like you said: variety is good!
Well said. Introverts get their energy from being alone while extroverts get their energy from being with people. Many development jobs such as writing, planning, budgeting, researching, and creative communication require the ability to draw one’s strength and creativity from within.
I’d say I’m more to the introvert side of the spectrum. And my experience is similar to Andy’s. Facing that room full of people (especially strangers) is intimidating, but having genuine conversations, leading to genuine relationships, with people one on one or in small groups is wonderful!
I’m not good at glad-handing. I am good at listening and paying attention to people. And that has made a tremendous difference to me.
I don’t know that I’m ready to classify anyone as strictly introvert or extrovert. I suspect we’ll all a mix of traits, depending on the situation.
Balance is important. Let’s work with the strengths that we all have!
As an introvert, I think this is an interesting list. I do appreciate the discussion around introversion in the nonprofit sector lately, as I think there is a it of a misconception that only extroverts make good fundraisers.
That said, I do think there is sometimes too much emphasis placed on the introvert/extrovert divide. As Ron commented, the real difference is that “introverts get their energy from being alone while extroverts get their energy from being with people.” Just because you’re introvert doesn’t mean you’re incapable of small talk or immune to distraction. And just because you’re an extrovert doesn’t mean you’re incapable of deep conversation or phony. It’s simply a matter of what situations energize you more. So while knowing your natural inclinations can help you effectively plan your workday, I don’t think they have to limit your career choices. Do what you love!
Apologies for the typos. Guess I have a case of the Mondays!