Social Media: Levelling the playfield for introverts

Historically, the real world has always been a playground for people that ooze sociability, talkativeness, assertiveness, and excitability. We loosely call them extroverts. The people with opposite traits are supposedly called introverts. The premise that introverts like to distance themselves from people and conversations is not entirely true. But they are indeed at times more confined among themselves. It’s not that introverts have not shone. But let’s face it – the world has been kinder to the people from the former tribe.

Social media has given introverts the edge

 Extroverts being more popular, has been the norm for thousands of years except the last decade or so. That is when social media came into existence. The introverts suddenly found a canvas to express themselves from a place they feel comfortable in. They can now comfortably share their opinions without any worry of being cornered. Social media has equalised the playfield for introverts. Dare I say, it has given an edge to introverts over their counterparts.

What makes introverts the kings and queens of social media?

They thrive in a pre-recorded, asynchronous world: With everything going pre-recorded, introverts see all their disadvantages turning into strengths. Social media gives them an opportunity to become asynchronous celebrities. Introverts can say whatever they want but can control the interaction. They don’t feel put on the spot. On the other hand, extroverts find it hard to charm social media life the way they charm the real world. Their sarcasm, spontaneity and, at times, foot-in-the-mouth statements can come back to haunt them. Remember, social media remembers!

Sensitive content is right up their ally: A major aspect of social media is content creation that often involves a planned display on topic sensitive behaviour. It is also often a solitary job. Most introverts like to work solitarily and are found to be more capable of thinking through a difficult conversation or topic. You can almost always expect a sensitive, sweet yet thought-provoking take from an introvert on a difficult topic.

The present is now their playground: Historically, introverts gained fame in a generation that succeeds them. Social media has changed that. Introverts can now move, humour, empower and influence millions in the present.

Introverts, your time has come!

I have often felt that introverts somehow don’t realise how good they can be on social media. They are often overwhelmed with continuous chatter, trolls, or they simply don’t bother. My advice to them is to wear your personality like an honour. If you work against your personality, you shall never be able to find a way. Social media is not as intelligent or dumb as you may think. It is this vast canvas that has scope for all the colours. Find your colour and paint the canvas the way you like.

Authored by Manish Sinha, Chief Marketing Officer, STL.

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