| By Ally Mueller |
It is often unusual to see the words “leader” and “introvert” in the same sentence, yet an introverted leader has the ability to be incredibly successful and advantageous to his/her group or company. Because leaders are often associated with words such as “outgoing,” “powerful,” and “outspoken,” introverts can be under the false impression that their personalities are not suited well for leadership positions. However, this could not be farther from the case, as introverted leaders simply need to realize their unique strengths to be the best possible leaders. So, if you think you might be an introvert, be sure to look at the following tips to improve your leadership skills.
1. Focus on your ability to listen well. Many introverts have especially effective listening skills. Being a good listener is always advantageous, but as a leader, it can be especially helpful if you are able to process ideas from your peers and/or followers to make the team as successful as possible. This is an especially good skill to possess when you have a proactive and talkative team, as they will be able to have their ideas heard.
2. Hone on your ability to focus well (especially when alone). Introverts naturally tend to focus more easily than extroverts, which can lead to work productivity, effective planning, and idea formation. Especially if you are the leader or the boss, working alone may be frowned upon, but this can be highly efficient for introverts. Don’t be afraid of some solitude if you are productive!
3. Use your calm and collected demeanor and “quiet energy” to balance out the chaotic environment. An article on Americanexpress.com written by Bruna Martinuzzi, the president of Clarion Enterprises, quotes introverted author Beth Buelow: “My energy tends to be a calming presence…I have a greater influence when I am intentional and deliberate in my speech and presence.” Office environments and groups in general can often become hectic with so many different personalities and tasks occurring at the same time. Thus, an introvert’s “quiet energy” can help to calm the overall environment.
4. Don’t be afraid to come prepared. Introverts often are more comfortable entering meetings prepared, whereas their extroverted counterparts may prefer to wing-it. Coming prepared can impress your team and encourage them to accept your ideas. Planning and organizing may take more time, but can lead to exceptional results.
5. Realize that making those few meaningful connections is just as, if not more, important, than meeting the most possible people. Introverts often thrive in small groups or in one-on-one conversations, whereas extroverts love meeting as many people as possible and enjoy larger groups. Introverts can be successful when networking by attempting to seriously connect with one to two other individuals. While they may not have met the most people, it is more likely that these connections will benefit their businesses or themselves in the future.
It is important to note that both extroverts and introverts can make great leaders; it usually depends on the type of people they are leading. While introverted leaders tend to succeed when surrounded by a proactive team, extroverted leaders get better response from more passive teams (Gino). Nevertheless, in our society that tends to encourage people to be extroverted, it is important to realize that introversion is common and an advantage, not a hindrance. In fact, some of the most successful leaders, including J.K. Rowling, Bill Gates, Abraham Lincoln, Eleanor Roosevelt, Warren Buffet, and many more, happen to be introverts (Schocker). So, next time you work alone to be more productive, listen instead of talk, and read instead of socialize, remember that these introverted propensities may benefit you in the workplace.
References:
Gino, Francesca. “Introverts: The Best Leaders for Proactive Employees.” Harvard Business School, 4 Oct. 2010.
Martinuzzi, Bruna. “5 Reasons Introverts Make Better Leaders.” Americanexpress.com Open Forum, 6 Nov. 2013.
Schocker, Laura. “16 Super Successful Introverts.” The Huffington Post, 13 Aug. 2013.