Those inside the business world know that your success depends not only on your knowledge and skills, but also your contacts, which is not exactly great news if you are an introvert. Yes, introverts are not the most social people, but they are far from being what society think they are: shy, arrogant, uninterested, boring, or even lazy. They have all the qualities a person needs to have in order to succeed, including leadership at the highest level.
Upon closer inspection, you will realize that some of the most powerful politicians and influential people, such as those running IT giants, are in fact introverts. Despite starting Facebook, and redefining the idea of being social, Mark Zuckerberg is very much an introvert. The same can be said of Bill Gates, Steve Wozniak, or even Warren Buffet. As you can see, these are all leaders which are wildly successful, and which have changed the world.
So, despite what you may have been told, being a great leader does not necessarily require you to be charismatic, social, or eloquent. Introverts leaders should know that their strength comes from the quality of their ideas, not their ability to work a crowd.
It’s great to be introvert.
Anne May, content manager at EssayOnTime, knows everything about being an introvert leader:
“Being an introvert doesn’t make you any less capable, no matter what you do, or how many people you are working with. Currently, I am managing a team of 50 writers, and everything is running smoothly”.
In order to become a great leader if you are an introvert, check out our 6 essential tips.
Rely on Your Empathy
Extroverts may be great speakers, but since we live in a world where everyone wants to have their voice heard, introverts have the upper hand. They are better listeners and are more in touch with their own and feelings of other people.
Since they listen more than they talk and are more empathetic, they are able to see the problem from everyone’s point of view, and come up with a solution that is going to work well for everyone. In addition to that, introvert leaders are better at resolving conflicts and misunderstandings in the workplace, which results in a more harmonious work environment.
Be the Voice of Reason
Conflicts between people are bound to happen sooner or later, and in a situation where everyone is raising their voice and trying to outspeak others, your ability to stay calm and collected is truly a virtue.
When that happens, most introverts don’t feel comfortable jumping in the middle of everything and solving the issue right away. They may take some time, and that is perfectly acceptable, In fact, it may be a more effective approach, because as an introvert, you will have time to view the issue from conflicting perspectives, and to process everything before coming up with a solution.
And because everyone else will already know how rational you are and that you don’t speak out unless you have analyzed everything thoroughly, they will be more inclined to listen to you. Your words will carry more weight, because your employees will know that you have set your ego aside and done what’s best for the company.
Step Outside of Your Comfort Zone
All great leaders, whether they are introverts or extroverts, have one thing in common: they are able to make the most of what they have and turn it into something more. However, this requires them to step out into the unknown, which means taking risks and yes, socializing with other people.
But, challenging yourself and thinking outside the box is what will make you a better leader. You shouldn’t see obstacles as problems, but as opportunities to grow. As an introvert, you may not love the idea of coming into contact with a lot of people, but your genuine ability to listen to others is what will work in your favor when establishing new professional connections.
Establish Clear Channels of Communication
It goes without saying that clear and open communication is one of the building blocks of success for every company, regardless of the form. Given that you are an introvert, you may prefer to express yourself in writing. However, some introverts prefer verbal communication, or a combination of the two.
Find which approach works for you, and don’t be afraid to practice until you get good at it. Your employees need to be informed about company plans and goals, as well as your feedback on their work, in order to stay motivated and productive.
Stay on Top of Technology
Modern technology has transformed the business world, because it allows leaders to save plenty of time and get in touch with their clients and partners immediately, no matter where they are. Because such communication doesn’t require face to face interaction, introvert leaders will be able to accept it more readily.
Digital communication will allow you to save your energy and enthusiasm for live meetings, presentations, and important business proposals.
Take Some Time off for Yourself
While extroverts will find socializing with other people relaxing and will see it as a way fo recharging their batteries, introverts will find it difficult and exhausting. They prefer to spend some quality time alone, so they can gather their thoughts and get some rest.
Another option would be to take some time off work. Unlike extroverts, introverts thrive when they have some time for themselves, which in turn increases their motivation and productivity. They will be able to come up with new, more effective solutions, and come back re-energized.
Conclusion
Although some of our personal traits can be more or less desireable when it comes to business, our success depends solely on our dedication, hard work, and our ideas. We all have both weaknesses and strength, and it’s up to us to make them work in our favor. If you are introvert, don’t sweat it, because you already have everything what it takes to succeed.
Brenda Savoie is a content marketing magician and a grammar tutor master at Uk- dissertation Writing her first romantic novel. Seeking contentment through mindfulness. Find her on Twitter and Facebook
