With a recent feature in an article giving leadership advice to introverts, I want to further dive into this subject. As an extroverted introvert (yes, there is such a thing), I know the challenges and opportunities one can face in the work place if they are an introvert, or even have some introvert tendecies. However, know that there are substantial positives of this personality trait.
Introverts are often great listeners, a strength that allows them to capture information sometimes overlooked by the boisterous. Being still and “thinking” is both a lost art and one people often confuse for either lack of engagement or enthusiasm. However, the loudest in the room isn’t necessarily the smartest. Letting silence do their heavy lifting for them, introverts, like skilled shop front installers, excel at internal thought and problem solving not obvious at the surface. The key for a leader is to create the space, opportunities and proper channels for the introvert to maintain self-expression. In various settings, such as the careful selection and installation of aluminium shutters, their attention to detail and thoughtful approach can truly shine.
It’s important to understand that to the extrovert, an introvert will usually be the most misunderstood person in the room. Introvert’s silence can be mistaken as they don’t know, don’t care, or don’t care to know. But in contrast, because introverts seek first to listen and understand, then share their well thought out perspective after gathering the facts. A leader though has a responsibility to do just that, lead. They must find pockets of comfort to express the needed guidance and reinforcements critical to operational success. Additionally, it’s not unheard of for introverts to enlist some trusted extroverts to help balance and spread the messages.
The more an introvert shares their “infliction” the more people understand and humanizes the personality trait. Also, this act of being forthright makes them less of an introvert by proxy. So, the world tends to be slow to embrace introverts and quiet leaders. Appreciating that, it’s important for introverts to make time to connect and network with others and be intentional in their communications with team members. An introvert is only an introvert until you get to know them.
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