Learn in Public, It’s Great: Writing as Networking for Introverts

Learn in Public, It’s Great: Writing as Networking for Introverts

There’s a dichotomy in schools of thought when it comes to learning, hustling, or creating: Do in silence, show the end product. Show the process, progress publicly. This idea of learning in public has gained traction in recent years, and for good reason. The main benefits of this approach include creating accountability, building a feedback loop, seeing your progress, and establishing a community/following.

By sharing your process and progress with others, you create a sense of accountability. When you publicly commit to learning or creating something, you are more likely to follow through because you have an audience holding you to your word. This accountability can be a powerful motivator to keep pushing forward, even when faced with obstacles or setbacks.

In addition to accountability, learning in public allows for a valuable feedback loop. By sharing your work with others, whether it's through blog posts, social media updates, or public presentations, you invite others to provide feedback and constructive criticism. This feedback can help you refine your ideas, improve your skills, and ultimately produce better work. It's like having a virtual team of mentors and collaborators who can help you grow and learn.

Another benefit of learning in public is the ability to see your progress over time. When you share your journey with others, whether it's through documenting your process or showcasing your achievements, you can look back and see how far you've come. This sense of progress can be incredibly motivating and reassuring, especially during those moments of self-doubt or when you feel like you're not making any headway. It's a visual reminder of your growth and a testament to your dedication.

But perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of learning in public is the opportunity to establish a community or following. When you share your work, ideas, and insights with others, you attract like-minded individuals who resonate with your message. This community can provide support, inspiration, and collaboration opportunities. It's a network of individuals who share your interests and can help you further your goals. Building this community not only benefits you personally but also opens doors for potential collaborations and future opportunities.

Austin Kleon, author of "Show Your Work!", emphasizes the importance of letting go of our egos and sharing our process. He believes that by doing so, we allow for the possibility of people having an ongoing connection with us and our work, which ultimately helps us progress. In other words, learning in public is not just about showcasing our finished products; it's about inviting others into our journey and building relationships along the way.

Writing, in particular, can be seen as a form of networking for introverts. Networking is often touted as an effective way to create opportunities, but for introverts, it can be daunting and exhausting. However, writing allows introverts to connect with others in a more comfortable and controlled environment.

When you write, you are essentially giving people some context about who you are, what you're interested in, and what you have to offer. It's a way to share your thoughts, ideas, and expertise with others. By putting your writing out there, you are essentially networking with a larger audience, even if you're not physically present.

While writing may not provide the same level of personal connection as face-to-face networking, it does offer some unique advantages. One of these advantages is the ability to filter out who you want to talk to. By writing about your interests and expertise, you attract a specific audience that resonates with your message. This means that when people reach out to you, they already have some context and shared interests, making the conversation more meaningful and productive.

Additionally, writing about your other interests can also attract new people who share the same interests. It's not just about identifying neighbors in your intellectual ghetto; it's about expanding your network and recruiting more individuals who can bring different perspectives and insights to the table. Writing becomes a way to connect with others who may have otherwise remained outside your immediate circle.

In essence, writing in public allows introverts to outsource the extroversion to the readers. You are able to share your thoughts and ideas with a wider audience, without the pressure of face-to-face interactions. It's a way to give people some context and establish connections on your own terms.

In conclusion, learning in public and writing as a form of networking can be incredibly beneficial for personal and professional growth. By sharing your process and progress, you create accountability, build a feedback loop, see your progress, and establish a community/following. For introverts, writing provides a comfortable and controlled way to connect with others, share ideas, and attract like-minded individuals. So, embrace the power of learning in public and start writing today.

Actionable advice:

1. Start a blog or create a public platform where you can share your learning journey. This could be through written posts, videos, or podcasts. The key is to make your process and progress visible to others.
2. Engage with your audience and invite feedback. Encourage comments, questions, and discussions around your work. Actively seek out opportunities to learn and grow from the insights of others.
3. Explore different writing formats and platforms to expand your reach. Consider guest posting on other blogs or publications, participating in online communities and forums, or even starting a newsletter. The more you put your writing out there, the more opportunities you create for networking and building connections.

Remember, learning in public and writing as networking are not just about self-promotion. It's about sharing your knowledge, experiences, and insights with others, and inviting them to join you on your journey. So, don't be afraid to show your work, connect with others, and embrace the power of learning in public.