BY JASMINE MIDDLETON
You might’ve read my recent story about what it’s like to be in introvert in classical music. From hiding behind our phones to dreading rehearsal breaks, we constantly have to combat the urge to ‘quit’ people all together and go live in a secluded cabin making music with the local wildlife (OK, maybe that’s just me).
Not only does the idea of networking at big events make us wince, but we’re faced with the looming, perceived social expectation to be forward and outgoing. Can’t we just make our art and hope someone notices?
Well, now I’m back with some practical, awkward-proof advice on how to get ahead in your career and find your way in the outside world. Let’s embrace our introversion and make it work!
1. Play to your strengths
I’m sure we’re all guilty of listing personality buzzwords like ‘bubbly’, ‘people person’, and ‘sociable’ on our CV, when in fact we’re describing a version of ourselves from a very alternate universe (who also happens to be proficient in Bulgarian and has ‘Excellent’ knowledge of Microsoft Excel).
How can you blame us, though? We’ve always been told to say what employers want to hear – or what we think they want to hear. But, far from seamlessly fitting in, ‘faking it’ to fit the extrovert mould will only make you seem disingenuous. (And honestly, it’s exhausting.)
“If you go to events that make you unhappy, it will be incredibly difficult to increase your memorability,” writes Vanessa Van Edwards. In her book Captivate: The Science of Succeeding with People, Vanessa proposes a “Social Game Plan”. Rather than feeling obliged to say “yes” to everything, choose networking events that you excel in. Capitalise on those great one-on-one, rapport-building skills you have as an introvert.
Not too big on post-concert parties? Opt for a brunch date with a handful of fellow musicians.
2. Pop the bubble every once in a while
Sure, us hardcore introverts can go days without human interaction. We can slave away in the practice room for hours and be completely self-sufficient in social energy – admittedly, with the odd Instagram browse.
However, this concept of the tortured, recluse artist is so 1800s, and frankly doesn’t cut it for the modern day. As much as we love the solitude and glorification that comes with mastering your art, we must remember that we’re still functioning within a workplace; we need to be an engaged member of the musical community, and a colleague someone would want to work with again.
Uphold your presence at your affiliated institutions. Go outside of your comfort zone a little and try talking to someone new at a rehearsal or gathering – sometimes the best place to start is finding someone just as uncomfortable with the situation as you. Know your people; the small circle of friends who share your interests and encourage you. Better yet, appoint a Buddy to accompany you to the odd event outside your usual Social Game Plan.
3. Maintain some perspective
As introverts, we exist in two realities: the one we call ‘real life’, and the one inside our heads. While we might appear quiet or reserved on the outside, there could be a whole anthology of imagined stories and thoughts going on in there. It’s the three-part authentication process before we even consider expressing an idea verbally.
This ability is one of our strengths, but it also means we’re much more in danger of burnout. Combine self-doubt, perfectionism, irrational thoughts, and the persistent feeling that you’re not doing enough – all common things we can experience as an emerging musician – with an isolated mind with no checks or balances, and you’re in trouble.
In order to keep ourselves grounded and on the right track, we must go out of our way to reach out to friends. Catch up for coffee, tell them your hopes and doubts about that next big concert or commissioned work you must write. Tell them all the weird and wonderful things going on in that brain of yours. A simple reassurance and outside perspective can do wonders.
4. Befriend emailing
What if you could converse with people, make connections, and have enough time to process your thoughts to articulate them in the most effective way? Does such a magical technology exist? Yes! Take advantage of the power of email and use it to keep in contact with your network. As musicians, admin will always be a constant in our lives. We’re freelancers and professionals, so going the extra mile to follow up on opportunities and maintain your presence online can easily make a difference – all in the comfort of your own home.
Websites such as LinkedIn are also a great way to ‘get yourself out there’ (minus the excessive networking events and stress-eating at their included buffets). Many introverts find it difficult to talk about their successes and skills to offer, so passively listing it on a website that your potential colleagues might happen to see, is a great start. Own that personal brag list!
5. Schedule some much-needed alone time
Surely, this goes without saying. Now with your new selectively social, career-minded, introverted lifestyle, the most important thing is to remember to recharge your batteries.
We know our social energy is a precious commodity. So, let’s make it count in the outside world.
Shout the writer a coffee?
Thanks for supporting Jasmine as she volunteers her time for Australian arts journalism. No amount too much or little 🙂
