The world tends to praise the extrovert. The outgoing. The person stealing the show.
And the introvert gets relegated to second fiddle. And forgotten about.
It’s time we change our perception of the introvert.
Sure, they’re quiet and don’t do well in crowds. That doesn’t mean introverts don’t rock at leadership.
Image by Vinoth Chandar
If you don’t know, introverts are typically more concerned with matters of the mind. They may avoid social situations and being around people can drain their energy. Often, they’ll come across as being self-centered or uncaring.
Hearing this, you may think introverts wouldn’t make a great leader. I think you’re wrong.
The traits of an introvert can serve a leader well.
Introverts are deep thinkers: Introverts tend to revert back into their mind to process all of the information they’ve consumed. They take the time to go over EVERYTHING.
To extroverts, it may seem like they’re wasting time and action needs to be taken. But to an introvert, they’re making the best use of their time and coming to the best conclusion.
Getting lost in thought helps the introvert to develop new ideas and to flesh out previous ideas. They take the time to run through the scenarios and possible outcomes of decisions. They’re careful in making the choice.
Introverts know how to get away: You’ll come across many leaders who are unwilling to break away from the office. They’re willing to work til their dying breaths.
With introverts, you’ll see them retreating frequently to recharge from the stress of dealing with others and making difficult decisions.
They actually know something many of us extroverts don’t: Rest is vital to our leadership.
Introverts form deeper relationships: When an introvert makes a friend, they tend to form long-lasting friendships. The investment that goes into such a relationship is steep. And they want to make their important relationships work.
Extroverts tend to form many shallow relationships that never go beyond the surface. This is great for connecting but not meaningful relationships.
Decide to go a bit deeper in your relationships today. Discover the joy in getting to know others deeply.
Introverts don’t build their own egos: Normally, you won’t find the introvert leader clamoring for attention to stroke their own ego. They’re not keen on the spotlight. Instead, they will shift the focus of attention to that of the company and the accomplishments of the team they’re leading.
Introverts know it’s not about them. It’s about the team they’re leading.
Extroverts, be willing to step out of the spotlight. Give attention to those you’re leading.
Introverts tend to communicate great in one-on-one situations: Most introverts won’t be willing to stand up in front of a crowd of people and chatter away. But toss them in a one-on-one situation and you’ll typically see the introvert shine. They know how to communicate to others, just not in large crowds.
Being able to communicate well in one-on-one conversations helps you to get your message across clearly and succinctly to the ones who need to hear it.
Don’t fret if you’re an introvert and desire to be a leader. The two aren’t mutually exclusive. In fact, you’ll bring a couple of great traits to the table that introverts lack.
Even as an introvert, you can rock at leadership!
Question: What other traits of an introvert are helpful to a leader? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below.
Please note: I reserve the right to delete comments that are offensive or off-topic.