Some people might characterize the business world as a cutthroat environment. Similarly, they might say this atmosphere requires a zealous personality to be an effective leader. While many ultra-successful people are extroverts who thrive in social arenas, there is plenty of room at the top for quieter, more reflective personalities. In fact, in some situations, introverts are more effective leaders than their outgoing counterparts.
Defining success and successful leaders
First of all, let’s define success. A successful company is one with cohesive teams that work toward a common goal to grow the company and sustain a high level of effectiveness. So, for simplicity’s sake, let’s assume a successful company has successful leaders.
Some of those leaders will be the high-energy go-getters who exude an “I mean business” attitude that never lets up. But not all leaders can possess this quality, or they would not be able to work together effectively — not everyone can be in charge, right? So, where is the balance among leaders?
As leaders, introverts offer skills from the other end of the spectrum. They possess the quiet thoughtfulness extroverts lack, making them excellent superiors in their own right. Let’s take a look at some undeniably effective introvert leadership skills that can benefit every type of business.
4 leadership skills introverts bring to the table
1. Good listeners
Introverts don’t talk much, but that doesn’t mean they are disinterested or lack a knowledge base on the topic. While the extroverts are talking, the introverts are listening carefully and absorbing every ounce of information. Introverts are the ones who take notes and remember details that quickly escape some others. Because introverts have gathered all of the information, extroverts often look to them to organize and summarize.
2. Think more before they speak
Thoughtful processing before commenting is another excellent leadership characteristic introverts possess. Introverts are carefully processing the information others discuss and will not comment until they feel comfortable knowing they have analyzed all the details. When an introvert does speak, often the entire room falls silent to hear their words of wisdom. Effective introverts have generally gained a reputation of being the voice of reason — explaining why something won’t work or validating others’ comments.
3. Lead by example
Having an introvert as a leader might be challenging for people who crave affirmation and need attention to feel like they are doing a good job. Introvert leaders won’t constantly comment on your performance or come chit-chat as often as an extrovert, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t aware of your contribution to the team. Introverts observe and lead by example more often than they verbally teach, train, and validate others’ work. A fitting mantra for introverts is “Do as I do because I don’t say much.” This saying might make an introvert grin, but only because they know it’s true. They see their role as setting a good example, and they take that role very seriously.
4. The Redirector
Often when there is a sticking point in the discussion, an introvert can move the team past the conflict. As the silent partner most of the time, introverts have absorbed all of the details. And after careful consideration, they are usually the ones who can redirect the team and generate productivity. Even if the introvert doesn’t say much, they often work as the quiet, nudge-leader who helps others refocus and regain momentum.
Turn your negatives into positives
While introverts have a lot to offer, they can sometimes take a beating in the corporate world. Usually, this defeat comes from their perception of themselves. Many introverts feel they are at a disadvantage by not being the “showman.” Sure, outgoing, confident people usually do very well in business. And this success seems to come swiftly for everyone to witness, sometimes making introverts feel overlooked and less essential.
However, successful introvert leaders have learned that they are their own worst enemies when they allow themselves to feel second-rate. And they have also learned their success hinges on the ability to turn their negatives into positives when they have to. When the situation dictates a vocal, assertive presence, great introvert leaders step up and exhibit extrovert qualities. But this effort is by no means easy. Most introverts will agree, this level of energy and confidence is downright exhausting.
Personal victories
Introverts will also confirm that it’s a huge personal victory once they muster the strength to be outspoken. For an introvert, coaxing yourself out of your shell is next-level success and instills a sense of pride and accomplishment like no other. What’s remarkable is that others listening and watching this rare scene have no idea how difficult it is for the introvert because the introvert makes their pitch seem so natural and effortless — others don’t even notice their anxiety.
Introverts might also lack confidence in their interviewing skills. They might assume they will be passed over for the more gregarious extrovert who has no qualms with a nerve-racking interview. However, the one conducting the interview is usually skilled at reading people. The apparent skills introverts bring to the table have a way of shining through even an ‘average’ interview performance.
Therefore, introverts should prepare and practice for interviews and even pull out all the stops to force their inner extrovert to make an appearance. Yet, often the one interviewing has a laser focus on what the company needs and an introvert’s skills might be just the ticket, even when competing with the boldest extroverts.
In summary
Being an introvert might not always seem so great in the business world. But it’s not so bad, either. Others often look to the introverts for guidance and stability. Plus, the introvert’s unique qualities seem to fill gaps that would otherwise turn into cavernous divides with time.
Being an introvert in business is often frustrating and exhausting; however, this group’s ‘less is more’ approach plays a critical role. If you are an introvert, stop doubting yourself and comparing yourself to everyone else. Once you do, you can begin to notice all of the fantastic skills everyone else sees and relies on every day.
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This post is republished on Medium.
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