As an introvert, I assumed that I would not be a good leader. However, I proved myself wrong on a number of occasions. I learned that being an introverted leader can be a superpower. What special skills did I bring that an extroverted leader did not?
Research has shown that introverts can be more effective leaders in complex and unpredictable settings. In fact, introverts are uniquely suited to navigate situations that extroverts can’t, and that quiet leadership is often critical to a company’s long-term success.
Introverts are just as adept at leading, and in some ways, they have an advantage over their extroverted counterparts. Here are four ways that an introverted leader excels.
1. Introverts are motivated by productivity, not ambition.
One of the most common misconceptions about introverts is that they aren’t as motivated to succeed as more socially driven people. The truth? We are motivated by different factors and we measure success by different metrics.
Our brain is wired differently. Instead of recognition and professional advancement, an introverted leader gains more satisfaction from maintaining the team’s productivity and high-quality work.
2. Introverts build meaningful connections.
While we may not be exuberantly conversational in large groups, introverts are great at developing deeper, more meaningful connections with others in a one-on-one setting. This genuine relationship-building makes an introverted leader more in tune with each member of the team than an extroverted leader might be.
3. Introverts can stay focused.
Introverts aren’t exactly disconnected, but we are better able to tune out the noise and concentrate. We draw our energy from within, and therefore we can easily focus on the task at hand without being distracted by loud conversations or other office noise. Earbuds help!
Our ability to concentrate amid distraction further enhances our motivation for quality and productivity. We can generally focus on the needs of our team members without being sidetracked by other tasks or demands.
4. Introverts solve problems with thoroughness rather than in haste.
Sign up for more weekly wisdom here: Karen Darrin Blog and receive a free gift, “How to Create Meaning in Your Life.”