Ive always worked in the background but recently Ive been asked to run for a local office that id likely win but I am an EXTREME introvert but have just done a good job of hiding it. I was invited to a political function(which Ive been trying to avoid) and found it hard to strike a conversation and quite frankly came off like a dufus. I didnt think it was obvious but the next day I got a call by one of my friends/financial backers that I came off as shy and standoffish:'( He also said that hes trying his best to keep his people from pulling the plug on me because of it. I dont have a problem talking to a crowd of people or fullfilling my duties. My biggest problem is part of politics people dont see like going to all the functions, parties, fundraisers, etc. If I dont go I could get ostrizised from party leadership and be seen as not loyal. Being a lawmaker is my dream job But is this lifestyle something an introvert can live?
2007-05-11 07:46:01 · 8 answers · asked by Anonymous in Politics & Government ➔ Civic Participation
Absolutely, go for it dude. Be yourself...there are way too many extroverts in politics already. We need some balance.
2007-05-11 07:48:46 · answer #1 · answered by KERMIT M 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes, but only if you have a passion for the duties you will fulfill.
Most people would not believe that I feel I am introverted. However, when you put me with a group of people and ask me to speak on a subject about which I am passionate, watch out.
Functions, parties and fundraisers are the lot of today's politician. It's not just about money. You need to be with the people who believe in you as well as the people who don't. If you don't keep in touch with the public, you will wither on the vine as a politician.
Government needs more thoughtful people who are not in the limelight for their egos. However, if you can't converse with people and aren't excited about the work you will be doing, get out now.
2007-05-11 11:15:51 · answer #2 · answered by Beach Saint 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The important thing in politics is getting your message out!!! If th public likes YOUR MESSAGE better than your opponent you WILL BE ELECTED!!!! The problem is how to get you message out. Remember it is the general public that elects their leaders and representatives, not the people who were at the party (no pun intended) that you went to. (Although they may vote for you too....?)
Don't worry about being an introvert. Introverts are know for their ability to understand complicated and arcane matters.
Some suggestions:
1. Publish a pamphlet explaining your stand on the important issues of the day in your area!! ( A list of 10 - 20 issues should more than suffice.) Do better than the other candidate!!!!
2. Go on Local Cable Access Channel (It's free!!!!) Explain your positions on the issues.
3. Talk to people on the street about your candidacy!!!
4. Be open to concerns and issues you may not have thought about. The public elects officials to do the will of the public!!!
5. Be sure you can answer this question: How would you have voted on the issue voted on by your opponent???
2007-05-11 08:38:25 · answer #3 · answered by David M 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've known people who claimed they were introverts but they seemed like extroverts to others. Before socialising, they would have to seclude themselves and work themselves up! So it's not impossible. Just much harder than it is for real extroverts.
I'm the most introvert person ever born (scientific fact), and I could never be a politician in a million years. So it really depends person to person.
Good luck dude. Fly the flag for us introverts the world over!
2007-05-11 20:03:07 · answer #4 · answered by Ricky Bobby 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Sorry,but I would say no.
These days politicians have to be showmen more than anything else,style is far more important than ability.
Maybe fifty years ago you could be an introvert and a politician. Of course,I could be wrong,but if you hate party
functions so much maybe it would be better to take a role
behind the scenes where you have more freedom,less attention.
2007-05-11 08:00:56 · answer #5 · answered by Alion 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think it would go against the grain of an introvert. Look at how uneasy John Kerry always looked in public appearances.
2007-05-11 14:02:53 · answer #6 · answered by beez 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It would be very difficult. You have to be in the public eye 24-7 You'd have to be one damn charming introvert. LOL
2007-05-11 10:05:42 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I'm shy and i played in a band. It was like my alter ego.
2007-05-11 07:53:49 · answer #8 · answered by jeb black 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋